- Image by Kassel via Flickr
The book How to talk so teens will listen & listen so teens will talk has been passing through our office. It presents some good advice about approaching the difficult subjects of sex and drugs with teens. The simple take away: instead of one big talk, break the discussion up over a series of small interactions.
The strategy proves useful as we work with the struggling teens that attend the Family Foundation School. The challenge is that it’s so easy for the adult to fall into the role of preacher, which in turn immediately alienates the younger person. Often times a question can provide an opening. Sometimes it’s a an observation regarding the behaviors of others. Suggested in the above mentioned book is using shared experience like viewing media like TV and movies as an opportunity to open a dialogue. Always essential is that the young person know they are being listened to.
“If, however, you suspect that your teenager is already using drugs with some frequency, if you notice changes in behavior, grades, appearance, attitude, friends, sleeping patterns, or eating habits, then it’s time to take action: Let your child know what you’ve observed. Listen to his or her side of the story. Learn what ever you can about what’s really going on. Call a local or national drug drug abuse program for additional information. Consult your doctor. Investigate whatever services are available in your community that can offer professional counseling and treatment. In other words, get help. You can’t do it alone.” How to Talk so Teens will Listen…, pg. 186
Solid advice. So often more damage gets done because asking for help gets put off till later.
