RAISING ADOLESCENTS The Role of Understanding

Conclusion of Behind the Behavior

Daniel, in the Philippines, explained:  "Our children tended to be secretive and wanted to have more privacy.  Often, the preferred to be with their friends rather than with us." 

Secrecy can be dangerous.  (Ephesians 5:12) Privacy, however, is different.  Even Jesus saw the value of seeking out "a lonely place for isolation." (Matthew 14:13) As they grow, youths too need some personal space-and they need for adults to respect that space.  A degree of privacy helps youths to think things through-a vital skill that will serve them well in adulthood.

Similarly, learning to establish friendships is a part of growing up.  True "bad associations spoil useful habits."  (1 Corinthians 15:33)  At the same time, however, it is as the Bible says:  "A true companion is loving all the time, and is  a brother that is born for when there is distress." (Proverbs 17:17 )  Learning how to form and maintain healthy friendships is a  vital skill that will last into adulthood.

When confronted with any of the above situations, parents would do well to acquire understanding so that they do not misinterpret the behavior of their teens. Of course,  understanding needs to be coupled with  wisdom , the ability to respond to a situation in a way that will produce the best result.  How can parents of adolescents do that? 

Next time: RAISING ADOLESCENTS The Role of Wisdom

From the Awake! magazine