What are some tips for talking to my teen about his friends and social activities?
One idea that works for many families is making a pact with your teen that you will pick him or her up anytime, anywhere, day or night, with no questions, lectures, penalties, etc., at that time. This gives your teen an automatic “out” if they’re in a situation they’re uncomfortable with. Generally, teens who talk to their parents about their friends and social activities do so because their parents have always listened and not used conversation to give their teenager unwanted advice or lecture or criticize him or her. Parents should listen to what their child has to say about their friends’ behavior and then ask the child how well they think that behavior works for their friends. Let the teenager come to their own conclusions by using good sense, which teens have plenty of, providing they are not being defensive. It’s also very important for parents to have their own life and not live vicariously through their teenager. If a parent seems overly invested in their teenager’s social life
