How to Talk Politics with Your Teen in Today's Charged Climate
Does talking politics with your teen feel like walking through a minefield? You’re not alone. In today’s polarized world, political discussions can quickly turn heated—or worse, completely shut down.
I sat down with Lindsey Cormack, associate professor of political science and author of How to Raise a Citizen. She shared expert strategies to help parents navigate these tough conversations in a way that builds understanding rather than division.
Why Talking Politics with Teens Feels Different Today
The political landscape has changed dramatically. Teens today are growing up in a hyper-connected world where they’re constantly bombarded with information—and misinformation—from social media.
Dr. Cormack points out that while there was never a “golden era” of political understanding, civics instruction has decreased in schools, leaving many teens without a strong foundation in how government works. Meanwhile, algorithms on platforms like TikTok and Instagram create echo chambers, reinforcing existing beliefs and making it harder to see multiple perspectives.
In her own research, Dr. Cormack found that social media feeds tailored to different political views rarely contained overlapping content. That means parents and teens may literally be seeing two different realities—making meaningful political conversations even trickier.
7 Strategies for Meaningful Political Discussions with Your Teen
Dr. Cormack offers practical, real-world strategies to help parents engage in productive conversations without arguments or frustration:
1. Meet Them Where They Are
Instead of forcing a sit-down debate, let political discussions arise naturally—during a car ride, while watching the news, or when they bring home an assignment on current events.
2. Start with a Question
Ask “What have you heard about this?” before jumping into an explanation. This helps you understand their perspective and correct misinformation without lecturing.
3. Validate Their Opinions
Even if you disagree, acknowledge their right to have a viewpoint. Saying “That’s an interesting take—I see why you feel that way” keeps the conversation open.
4. Teach Media Literacy
Help them recognize that online content is often designed to grab attention, not necessarily to inform. Encourage them to question sources and look for bias.
5. Expose Them to Different Perspectives
If they only see one side of an issue, ask, “I wonder what people on the other side think?” This fosters curiosity rather than defensiveness.
6. Connect Politics to Their Values
Frame discussions around issues that matter to them—whether that’s climate change, education, or social justice. Find common ground rather than focusing on differences.
7. Model Engagement
Your actions speak louder than words. Show your teen what it means to be informed, involved, and respectful in political discussions.
5 Key Civic Concepts to Teach Your Teen
Dr. Cormack believes every teen should understand these before they’re eligible to vote:
- How to register and vote – Many young adults don’t because they don’t know the process.
- The difference between primaries and general elections – Understanding this is key to participation.
- Federalism – Knowing how federal, state, and local governments function.
- How to have tough conversations – Learning to discuss differences respectfully.
- Their own power – Helping them see how they can make a difference.
Become a Political Conversation Partner
Navigating political discussions with your teen takes patience, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn together. As Dr. Cormack emphasizes, it’s not about imposing your views—it’s about guiding them to think critically and engage thoughtfully.
Want to dive deeper? Listen to Episode 232 for expert insights and real-world strategies to make political conversations with your teen less stressful and more productive.
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Connect with Lindsey Cormac
📌 Website: howtoraiseacitizen.com
📌 Buy the Book:
By embracing these strategies, you’ll strengthen your relationship with your teen while helping them grow into thoughtful, engaged citizens. 💪
