Keys to Family Happiness/WHEN YOUR ADOLESCENT QUESTIONS YOUR FAITH - Conclusion of Talk It Out

You have a better chance of accomplishing that if you discern any underlying  issues that might be contributing to his attitude.  With that in mind, consider how the above conversation could have been handled more effectively.

Son: I just don't like going to meetings anymore.

Father: [calmly] Why do you feel that way?

Son: I find them boring, that's all!

Father:  Sitting for an hour or two can be boring. What do you find most challenging about it?

Father: Is that how your friends feel? 

Son: Well, that's just it! I don't have any-at least not anymore. Ever since by best friend moved away, I feel like there's no one to talk to!  Everyone else is having a good time. I feel so left out!

By drawing out the adolescent, the father in the above scenario not only gets to the underlying issue-in this case, loneliness-but also builds trust, thus keeping the door open for further discussions.

Next time:Keys to Family Happiness/WHEN YOUR ADOLESCENT QUESTIONS YOUR FAITH - Be Patient!

From the jw.org publications