Moody Teenagers

Parents often complain their teenagers are moody, impulsive and self-centered, but it may not be their fault. Bad moods are common in the teenage years as hormones get busy during puberty.

The high levels of testosterone, estrogen and progesterone during puberty can cause a person to react more strongly to emotionally loaded content . Teenagers are in a transition between childhood and adulthood, and all the changes and new responsibilities are often overwhelming.

• Recognize that hormones have a significant impact upon their mood.

• Remember that your teenager’s brain is still developing. Your child’s brain is quite literally still under construction, even as the rest of his or her body may begin to appear “adult.”

• Remain calm and consistent. Hormones can render teens emotional instead of logical.

• Spend time with your teenager. Make yourself available to talk when your child expresses interest in doing so.

• Offer your child some time alone. Teenagers need time to themselves to process the many changes they’re going through.

• Show your love. Your job as a parent is to love them no matter what. Remember that you are a role model. If your child sees you treating others poorly or engaging in destructive behaviors such as heavy drinking, smoking, or drug use, you’ll have little recourse to criticize his own poor behavior.

Remember, nearly everyone goes through mood swings during the teen years. When to worry. Preteen mood changes can seem very similar to the signs of depression, which is something kids in this age group may struggle with. If your child is experiencing sadness and/or anxiety that appears to be more than ordinary moodiness, talk to your child’s doctor.