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Your relationship with your teen
Teens can be prone to mood swings and emotional outburst. It’s common for parents to feel that they no longer have a close relationship, their teen doesn’t open up to them or argues with them constantly. The articles in this section give advice to parents on improving your relationship with your teenager.
It’s important to remember that being a teen is a challenging time – they are going through rapid hormonal changes, physical development, and increasing pressures from school, friendships, and social media. They need to assert their independence and explore their own identity – however, they still need consistent support, understanding, and guidance from their parents.
What do teenagers need from their parents?
- Love – teens still need their parents to express love and affection for them.
- Reassurance – they need to know the changes they are going through are normal and that you are there for them.
- Praise and positivity – Notice their good qualities and praise them when things go well, so they are not always hearing negativity and criticism.
- Presence – spend time with them, take an interest in what they’re doing and talk to them about their own interests.
- Boundaries – boundaries may need to change as your child gets older but setting clear and consistent boundaries is still very important for teens.
- Choices and responsibilities – Teens need to increase their independence and gradually get given more freedom and choices as they get older. They still need guidance, but sometimes you need to respect their decisions, even if they seem wrong to you.
- Privacy – Respect their personal space and give them time to themselves.
- Listening – Actively listen to what they are telling you and be open to compromise and negotiation.
Resources for parents
- Contact the Coram Family Lives helpline to connect with experienced professional family support workers and highly-trained volunteers. Call 0808 800 2222, WhatsApp 07441 444125, email askus@coramfamilylives.org.uk or contact us through live chat on our website.
- Register for our free, self-guided online parenting courses on Parenting Teens or Challenging Behaviour in Teens.
Resources for teens
- The Mix – Peer support, counselling and advice for under-25s.
- Childline – Information, advice and a confidential helpline.
- Youth 4 Youth has trained mentors who your teen can talk to about any issues that they may have.
Reviewed
This page was reviewed by Rosemary Spillman, Head of National Services. Last reviewed 5 June 2026.