Family and Parenting: Information For Families

A fifteen to seventeen year old goes through many changes. This stage of middle adolescence is marked by many different cognitive, physical, mental, and sexual developments. Girls are usually physically mature by this time; most will have gone through puberty. Boys may still be maturing on the physical level. Body size and weight are common issues that a teenager deals with. Eating disorders may manifest at this point, especially among female teens. This stage is also important because a teenager is developing a unique personality. Even though relationships with friends are important, teenagers will have broader interests as self-identity becomes clearer. This is also a time of increased responsibility, as many teens start working and eventually leave home after high school. Other changes in teens include:

1. Less frequent conflicts with parents
2. More independence from parents
3. Heightened interest in the opposite sex
4. Development of closer relationships
5. Increase in time spent with peers
6. Less time spent with parents and family
7. Improved work habits
8. Greater interest in educational and vocational future
9. Depression and sadness

A fifteen to seventeen year old needs the support of parents. In order to support your child, you can:

1. Spend quality time with your teen doing things he or she enjoys.
2. Recognize your child’s efforts and accomplishments.
3. Show respect toward your child’s opinions. Do not play down his or her opinions.
4. Respect the fact that your child needs privacy.
5. Ask your child about school and activities. Promote involvement in music, art, theater, and sports.
6. Promote your child’s involvement in volunteer and civic opportunities.
7. Make sure you show your teen love and affection. Dedicate time to doing things you both enjoy together.
8. Encourage your teenager to eat healthy, sleep well, and exercise regularly.
9. Give your teen chances to problem solve as situations arise. Be available to share advice. Teach your child the importance of problem solving.
10. Discuss uncomfortable situations with your child. Help him or her plan ahead when it comes to drug use among his friends, as well as pressure to have sex, and more.
11. Talk to your child about the possible dangers of the Internet. Promote discipline when it comes to time spent in chat rooms, games, and so forth.
12. Focus on talking about responsibility, plans, and respectful behavior to a teenager that works.
13. Make sure that you encourage your teenager to have meals with the family. By eating together, you can teach your child about healthy food choices and about the importance of having quality time with family. A teenager who eats with his or her family has a better chance of doing well in school and staying away from drugs and alcohol.

Further, make sure that your child practices safety measures while driving, riding in a car, playing sports, and in other situations.

1. Make sure your child knows about the importance of wearing a seatbelt in a car.
2. Emphasize safe driving practices, like obeying speed limits and refraining from drunk driving.
3. Set rules on when your child can use the car.
4. Make sure your teenager is comfortable to call you when he or she is out of the house.