Tag Archives: Teen Behavior

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Teen Gambling

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My son seems to be spending a lot of time playing poker with his friends. He also reads about it on the internet and watches it on TV. Could he have a gambling problem?

Most kids are exposed to gambling long before they reach the adolescent years. They bet with their friends about who can run faster, make a basket, or choose the winning team. They play chance games at fast food restaurants with lucky scratch-off cards or look under the cap of carbonated beverages to win a prize. In fact, I will bet that you have made an innocent wager with your child and didn’t even realize it.

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Teen Confidence

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Teenager often experience a “crisis in confidence” when something in their world ignites. This can be as simple as trying a new activity or as complicated as navigating social relationships. And while feelings may be involved, confidence is not about emotions; rather, it is about ability and being good at something. Unfortunately, when anyone lacks confidence, it can lead to negative feelings, situational depression, and undue anxiety.

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Sibling Relationships

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My 14 year old son used to be best friends with his little brother. Lately, my older child ignores his little brother, and they don’t spend as much time together. What do I do?

It is upsetting for parents to see their children drift apart. Siblings share a special bond, and it brings parents much pleasure to see their kids spend quality time together. The teenage years, however, bring on behavioral changes that impact how adolescents view family, and it feels like it happens almost overnight. All of sudden your child prefers time with friends more than time with the family. And when your son is home, staying in his room, playing on the computer, and text messaging his friends becomes his priority. This behavior is part of normal adolescent development.

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Appropriate Teen Attire

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My teen age daughter dresses in clothes that make her look too mature, and, I am embarrassed to say, a little too sexy. What do I do?

Before the school year ended, I had the opportunity to attend a high school prom. While some girls where dressed in traditional taffeta, many girls wore sleek, stylish and, yes, sexy dresses. Unfortunately, these adolescents looked mature beyond their years. These intelligent teens were able to push the limits of the school’s sensible dress code with heels that were too high, dresses that were too tight, and makeup that was too sophisticated.

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Teen Texting

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On my most recent cell phone bill, I noticed that my teenage son had 1500 text messages. Does this seem like too much?

OMG (that is text talk for oh my god), 1500 messages sounds like a lot but it may not be. Consider that today’s teen texts for a variety of reasons. How, why, and when your son communicates may be more important than the actual number.

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Teen Dating

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Last month, my ninth grade son ask me to help him pick out a Valentine’s present for his girlfriend. He seems so young to have a girlfriend. What age is normal for kids to start having dates?

First, it is great that your son still wants his mother’s input. When kids enter high school, they often start relying on their friends more than their parents. I hope you were able to help your son and that he had a positive experience around this very difficult time.

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Bullying Video

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The movie Mean Girls brought girl bullying to the spot light. Boys and girls bully in completely different ways. Dr. Hyken explains signs to tell if your daughter is a bully or if she is being bullied.


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Teen Drug Use

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When our children have role models like Miley Cyrus, who was caught on video taking a hit from a bong, what are they suppose to do? Teenagers are also the target for many different tobacco companies these days and the pressure is getting greater. Dr. Hyken talks about what can be done to make sure your child makes the right choice.


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What Your Teen Isn’t Telling You

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Balancing teens’ need for personal privacy with appropriate guidance and intervention is a challenge nearly all parents face as their children mature. In what areas can teens be allowed some privacy and where is it necessary to step in? Dr. Hyken offers helpful tips for parents.


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Teens and Texting

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In an increasingly digital age, many parents are concerned about their teens’ dependence on texting. Dr. Hyken discusses what can be done when teens become obsessed with their phones.