Virtually no mother or father wants to brand their child as a disturbed youth. Parents aspire to see their children be successful and productive adults. Yet, many adolescents and teens continually make choices that restrict their potential.
Experts state these are critical times for teens. They are faced with serious decisions and influences which may lead them to making poor choices. They can abuse substances, act out violently or passively, endure self inflicting pain or a variety of other issues...
But you already knew that. Your family is struggling to come up with solutions. Is it time to get further help? Do you foresee things getting worse or is this "just a phase?" How long will you give your child to get their feet back under themself? Perhaps the following list can help you decide if it's time to move forward with a more aggressive plan of action:
Look at this list objectively. Determine if there are enough warning signs to seek further help.
Education and Interests:
Has your child ever:
had their grades drop? been truant?been expelled?been suspended?
Is your child in danger of dropping out of school?
Has your teen lost interest in activities they once enjoyed? Such as sports, hobbies, or childhood friends?
Behavior:
Does your teen:
severely lack of motivation? seem depressed/withdrawn? display outbursts of temper?lack self-worth and self-esteem?
How about appearance or personal hygiene, has it changed? Think about the "normal" teenager and how far have they drifted from that typical standard?
Family and Friend Relationships:
Does the teen associate with a peer group that could be suspected of unwanted behavior?
Do you as parents, feel powerless?
Does your child defy established rules regardless of the consequences?
Troubled teens often tell lies regarding their activities? Do you notice this happening more and more, especially when you check up on your child?
Do you have difficulty having family rules and expectations followed, including basic household chores and homework?
Does you have to pick your words carefully when speaking with your child, so as not to elicit a verbal attack or even rage?
Is your child:
verbally abusive?
deceitful and manipulative?
having problem with authority?
Dangerous Actions:
Has there been problems with the law?
Has your child ever cried for help by displaying any evidence of suicide?
Have they been caught stealing money or personal items from family?
Do they display violent behavior?
Is your teen sexually promiscuous?
Do you suspect experimentation with drugs or alcohol?
No matter what the issues may be, sometimes parents become desperate when trying to deal with their troubled teen. Parents need to step forward and seek help now otherwise the problems may escalate.
Don't give up!! Have hope!
There is an array of custom made programs to fit the requirements of your child. Programs for troubled youth are there to help.There will be something to help you and have the potential to stimulate change in your own child's life. These programs range from boot camps for children, residential and therapeutic boarding schools, and wilderness camps. There is hope, your research starts here.
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