If your child slams doors on your face, screams, roars or cries regularly and "You don't get it" if that is what you get to hear at least twice a day you know you are the parent of a teenager.

A Teenager is a young person whose age falls within the range from 13–19 years. These years are usually classified as turbulent times as teenagers face some real concerns on a daily basis during this age as this is the most awkward growth stage of their lives. Teens are exposed to some real overwhelming internal and external struggles as they are expected to cope with physical, mental, emotional and social changes.

Advances in technology have changed or amplified some of the struggles these young people face. Today's teens are facing issues that no previous generation has ever been through. 

SOME OF THE ISSUES THAT TODAY'S TEEN STRUGGLES WITH INCLUDE: 

They feel they are being misunderstood. 

They struggle with interpersonal relationships.

Hormonal changes as puberty begin, Self-esteem and body image, Depression, bullying, Addiction to drugs, smoking obesity, stress, teenage pregnancy, peer pressure, competition, unsafe sex etc.

It is vital that their feelings and thoughts are validated and that validation comes from their parents. Parents and guardians should not judge or criticize their feelings or thoughts and try and be sensitive towards them while they are being exposed to a range of emotions.

Some of the effective tips for positive parenting would include:

1. Communication is the key to developing a rapport by finding a correct balance between being a friend and a parent. A clear communication channel opens many possibilities. It not only enhances the relationship but would also help the teenager confide in the parents about sensitive topics like bullying, peer pressure and abuse.

2. Stay connected to your teen and engage in meaningful conversations with them. Talk less and listen more to your teen.  Respect their opinions and take into account their thoughts and feelings.  This will enhance their self-confidence and self-esteem.

3. Allow them to make mistakes and learn from them by granting them more privacy and autonomy.

4. Model values in your own life which you want your teenager to endorse as remember they are always watching us.

5.  Be clear about goals and expectations and talk freely with them about certain common teenage problems like dating, sex, drugs and alcohol. 

6. Trust your teenager as it is the foundation of any relationship. Spying, cross-questioning,  doubting or checking with friends might hamper the bond that you share with your teenager leading to defiant behaviours such as lying, stealing, hiding and being disrespectful.

7. Actively look for things that your teenager is doing right. Praise more rather than finding their faults as this will increase their feelings of competency.

8. Last but not the least, be real and admit your own confusion and mistakes and apologize when appropriate.

So we parents have to find innovative ways to connect with our teenagers and build a relationship to effectively support them during this difficult phase of growing up.