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INSIDE THIS ISSUE How Fun Activities Help Kids and Adults Thrive How Much Do You Know About Diet Soda? Work With Your Body to Unlock Lasting Weight Loss Trash-Bagging Makes Rainy Days Fun Take a Break Testimonial Turn Teen Disagreements Into Growth PAGE 1 PAGE 2 PAGE 2 PAGE 3 PAGE 3 PAGE 3 PAGE 4
Tips for Handling Conflict With Care PARENTING TEENS As kids grow into teens and young adults, family dynamics often change. Gaining more independence naturally becomes their priority, which can lead to more conflicts at home. Whether disagreeing over curfews, arguing about responsibilities, or struggling with differing communication styles, these challenges can feel new to many parents. on their feelings to show you’re paying attention (e.g., “It sounds like you’re upset because you feel misunderstood.”). This approach helps teens feel heard and makes it less likely they’ll get defensive. Collaborate on solutions. Instead of imposing rules or decisions on your teen, involve them in finding
the reasoning behind rules and allowing room for compromise. You can also demonstrate the behavior you expect from your teen by setting and maintaining your boundaries. Modeling appropriate boundary-setting in your interactions shows them how to establish and respect limits in their relationships, which can benefit them long after they leave home.
resolutions. Collaboration and negotiation show their input matters. Open discussions foster mutual respect and help build a foundation for long-term trust and understanding. When collaborating, ask open-ended questions like, “What do you think would be fair?” or “How can we make this better for everyone?” Set clear, respectful boundaries. Teens still need structure, but how you enforce boundaries matters. Respect their growing independence by explaining
Conflicts don’t have to create division, though. They can even strengthen your relationship if you handle them with care.
Building Stronger Bonds Through Conflict
Key Strategies for Conflict Resolution Engage in active listening.
The teenage years bring rapid changes in how teens relate to their world and families. Conflict is common during this formative period, but it doesn’t have to be a battle — it can be a bridge. With patience, empathy, and the right strategies, you can foster a bond that not only survives the teen years but thrives because of them.
Sometimes, the best way to avoid or defuse conflict is just to listen. Active listening helps strengthen relationships by showing your teen you care and understand their perspective. Reflect
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