“Turbulent” is an excellent word to describe the adolescent stage. You probably remember it from your own teenage days. Now that you’re a parent, it’s all a different kind of horror and sometimes you just wish you’d wake up and it’ll be over. But the better thing to do is to address the problem now.
(Troubled) Teen Behavior
It’s understandable for your teen to act out and rebel a little at this stage because of the physical, mental, emotional, and social pressures that converge at this age. It’s just that some teens are able to cope better than others. Those who aren’t able to adapt as effectively turn to other things (or people) to help them. If this happens to your teen he or she can get into the wrong company and this sometimes leads to substance abuse, self-mutilation, academic delinquency, and other problems. Perhaps you’re already experiencing these.
Behavior Modification
The principle behind behavior modification is to replace negative behavior with positive behavior. A home remedy for this is the carrot (as opposed to the stick) approach in which rewards are offered for good behavior. Again, note that some teen behaviors are age-appropriate and are really just phases that will pass. As a parent you have to learn to recognize when some types of behavior are plainly problematic and out-of-bounds.
Behavior Modification Schools
Sometimes no matter how hard you try, your teens will rebel beyond your acceptable limits, and this can wreak havoc in your family and limit opportunities for your child’s future. At this point it’s better to seek professional help through long-term treatment. One way is to enrol your teen in behavior modification schools where he or she will be placed in a learning venue with fellow teens who share the same struggles. Being in an environment with people who can relate can ease acceptance and adjustment.
Choosing the Best School
Some schools specialize in dealing with substance abuse problems; others, with violent behaviour—you get the picture. It will help for you to do your homework. If you’re not prepared to sift through the different factors like the accreditation, specializations, affiliations, etc. of the schools you’ll be choosing from, you might end up making a decision you’ll regret.
It will help to consult HelpYourTeenNow.com which provides free comprehensive consultations for troubled teens. They’ll hold your hand from evaluating and assessing your teen’s needs to recommending the school that’s best for you, and they’re just a call away.