Your child has always been sweet and accommodating, but ever since they hit their teen years, they have begun to wreak havoc on your household. Be aware that there are warning signs your teen might be headed for trouble.
Withdrawal
All of a sudden, your teen doesn't want to have anything to do with you or the family. Family reunions, church activities, and weekend outings may no longer interest them the way they used to. Their room becomes a refuge and they only come out to shower and eat. They may refuse to attend family events stay up very late at night sleep all day,.
Rebellious or Moody Behavior
When asked to perform a household task, they may respond in a surly and unfriendly manner. They may be sweet and pleasant one minute and then hate you the next. They may deliberately refuse to follow your rules and proceed to do exactly the opposite, sometimes very blatantly. Outside behaviors may include shoplifting, speeding, or drug usage.
Poor Hygiene and Disorganized Behavior
Their room may become a disaster area and showers may become very intermittent. It may be a struggle to get them to dress up and for their laundry to make it to the washing machine. Patiently reminding them to take care of their hygiene and supplying them with necessities may eventually entice them to pay closer attention to their appearance and cleanliness. If their bedroom is a disaster area, you can encourage them to clean it.
Truancy
One of the worst aspects of declining teen behavior is truancy. Out of the blue, you may receive notifications that your child has been skipping class for unknown reasons. They may skip entire days of school or just those classes they don’t enjoy. They may also be truant from after-school activities, Sunday school, and other appointments that you have made for them.
These warning signs indicate your teen might be headed for trouble. Make a point of paying special attention to your child and their needs. That safe, secure environment they have been raised in will eventually bring them back to earth and home to you.
