By: Shawne Poplar, MA LPC-S Licensed Professional Counselor
Teens have a developmental need for independence. For that reason, privacy, often found in their bedrooms is important. Overtly forcing them out may lead to a power struggle, and inadvertently lead them to pull further away. Here are practical recommendations:
Allow choice- Give your teen a window of time OR amount of time they can spend in their room.
Remember it's not personal- Teens will distance themselves from their parents in order to work on self-discovery and to process thoughts and emotions.
When should parents worry?
Red flags should raise if your teen is withdrawn AND displaying a change in behavior/ mood, sleeping habits, eating habits, or trouble in friendships/ relationships. These are common signs of mental health decline.
What can parents do when they are worried?
Share that you have noticed a change, without judgment
Share that you are here to listen
Ask how you can support them
Consult with their primary care physician
Consider consulting with a therapist