Pro Parenting Tip: Listen with Empathy

Does your teen seem like a ticking time bomb, ready to erupt over seemingly small things? You're not alone. Teen anxiety is on the rise, fueled by a world of uncertainties: new schools, social pressures, academic worries, the list goes on!

Understanding the Why Behind the What

This constant state of "what if" can manifest as anger, tearfulness, negativity, sleep issues, or disorganization. As parents, our instinct might be to jump into one of these modes:

• Shut-Down Mode: ("Enough! Stop worrying or lose your phone!") This only pushes them away.
• Problem-Solving Mode: ("Stay on top of homework and you'll be fine!") Ignores the emotional root of the anxiety.
• Reality Check Mode: ("No one cares about that zit!") Belittles their concerns.
• Confidence Booster Mode: ("You're smart! You'll ace it!") Can feel dismissive of their current fear.

If these don't help, what do we do instead?

The Superpower of Empathy

The key to unlocking a calmer, more confident teen lies in empathic listening. It's more than just hearing their words; it's about truly stepping into their shoes and understanding their perspective.

Here's the magic: you only need to do one thing. Listen intently, without judgment, and try to see things from their point of view.

What Empathetic Listening Sounds Like

• "That sounds really tough. Mustering the courage to talk to your crush can be nerve-wracking." (Validates their feelings)
• "It makes sense to be worried about the big test. What specifically are you worried about?" (Acknowledges their concern and prompts self-reflection.)
• "I understand why you feel overwhelmed. What would make this feel more manageable?" (Prompts problem solving.)

Bottom Line

By truly listening with empathy, you make them feel heard, valued, and safe. This fosters trust, allowing them to express themselves freely and find the strength to overcome challenges.