Parents Who are Bullied (3-22-2011)

I’m always surprised by the statistics of the number of parents intimidated or bullied by their own teenager.
With teens, anger is usually an emotional response to not getting something wanted, or losing something once held dear. Whether anger is ignited by peers, parents, or circumstances, physical outbursts can never be allowed.
The line must be drawn as to what behavior will be tolerated when your teen is angry. You may need to say, “If you’re angry, I’m okay with that. But if you become physical, or do damage, I will have you arrested.” Help your teen find appropriate ways to deal with their anger or to let off steam. But never give them license to strike out, no matter what the cause.