Drama In Youth, Here Are 7 Strategies Parents Can Do In Dealing With It

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JAKARTA - One of the common causes of the emergence of 'drama' between parents and teenagers is an inappropriate communication method. Children expect parents to understand their situation better, while some parents feel the right to determine what their child may and cannot do.

Therefore, here are some ways that parents can do in dealing with teen dramas, reported by Very Well Parenting, Monday, May 6.

Avoid immediate action giving solutions shortly after you hear children's complaints. Because, a solution that is not important will only complicate the situation. Use the method of hearing reflective. Its function is so that your child knows you really listen to and understand the problem. Amy Morin, LCSW, suggests that when your child has problems with friends, you can give a response "so you catch it, person A doesn't want to be friends anymore because you already have a new friend?"

Although in your opinion the problems experienced by children are not a big thing, still avoid saying the reaction is excessive. On the other hand, validation of his feelings and say something like, 'Father/Mother sees you are very angry with what happens at school.'

Help teenagers label their feelings and then say something that proves that it's okay to feel like that. If your teenager feels understood, he can begin to find a way to deal with them.

Matching the emotional level of teenagers with parents by shouting or showing stress expression will only worsen the situation. Avoid getting involved in hot discussions. If a teenager screams or behaves disrespectfully, tell him that you prefer to have a proper discussion. Go out, take a deep breath, or agree to discuss the conversation later.

Explain to him it's okay to feel angry, worried, and sad, but explain that a strong feeling cannot be used as a reason for bad behavior. Teach teenagers to control their emotions so that they don't control themselves. Take time to teach them anger management skills and emotional setting skills so that they can find a healthy way to deal with their feelings.

Teach him the skills of solving problems, one of which is by exchanging ideas to find a solution together. For example, if he is sure he will not graduate from high school because he failed in the exam, discuss what he can do to increase the possibility of graduating. Talk about his choices and the steps he can take.

Dramatic reactions often stem from a sense of injustice, both real and imaginary. Growing gratitude will help teens focus on what they have, rather than demanding they deserve better. Teach children to pay attention to all the positive things that happen in their lives and most likely the drama will decrease quickly.