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Communication: Getting Through To Your Teen Daughter


Being a teenage girl in the 21st century is tough.

They’re minds are preoccupied with all of the changes they are experiencing physically, emotionally and psychologically.

They’re still developing, and, sometimes they don’t know how to handle it all. Unfortunately, it can cause friction between them and you.

While the roller coaster ride of emotions, and, changes like curfews, new friends and being a new driver stretches the patience parents, communication is the key to a healthy relationship.

Learning how to communicate with your teen is one of the most important things you can do.

As she learns that you are her #1 fan, you will develop a comfortable, expressive, loving relationship with her. Both parents and teens alike have pet peeves about communicating with each other. So, here are some ways parents can get through naturally.

Be an Opportunist. The drive to the store, ride to dance practice, and, dinner times are great opportunities to engage your teen daughter. The time spent together is usually brief, and, when riding in the car very little eye contact is required. This makes your teen more comfortable when having awkward conversations.

Additionally, oftentimes they are less stressful moments because both of you tend to be more relaxed.

Conversation Starters. TV and movie times are also good opportunities to talk. A scene during a movie or show are ideal times to learn more about what your daughter thinks about a topic. For example, an angry mother wrote an open letter to her teen daughter about Miley Cyrus’ performance and behavior during MTV’s Video Music Awards.

The mother immediately saw the awards show as an opportunity to have a “teachable moment” about self esteem, respect, acceptable public behavior and more. You might ask: What do you think about that? In other situations, you might ask: Has that happened to anyone you know?

Use Technology. Teens exchange an average of 50 texts a day. Learn how your daughter uses social media and texts to communicate then use that knowledge to send words of encouragement or praise for accomplishments. For example: Best wishes on your English test today! You’re really working hard and I am proud of you for the time you’re spending studying.

Read more posts by Dr. Trevicia Williams here. Dr. Williams blogs for JenningsWire.