Family Communication

Communicating well requires not only good listening skills but also effective speaking skills. Troubled teen program advocates that those people who learn to express themselves effectively can keep communication open by reducing the chance for arguments, bad feelings, or boredom.

Express your feelings. It is difficult for others to understand what you are feeling unless you tell them. When you express yourself, be willing to say what you really think and feel, not what you think others want to hear.

Be honest. Take responsibility for your own thoughts and feelings by learning to express them without putting blame on others.

Avoid generalizations. Comments that are oversimplified or based on stereotypes can sound opinionated and unyielding.

Does your family convey messages of love and respect through careful listening? Parents who do take time to listen to their teens are more likely establishing friendship, trust and respect. Family therapy is much better treatment than other troubled teen program.

The following steps can help you listen more effectively:

1. Be accepting. A good listener accepts other people’s descriptions of their feelings, motives, or goals without lecturing them on how they should think or feel.
2. Avoid interrupting. When people share their feelings, avoid interrupting with your own experiences and opinions.
3. Share your perspective. Once others have expressed their feelings, they may want to hear your perspective. If so, explain how you see the situation and offer alternatives. But unless serious matters are involved, wise parents often allow children to make their own decisions and learn by experience to the extent appropriate for their age and level of responsibility.