Teenage is a time of flux, when a child is besieged by doubt, uncertainty, and lack of self confidence. A teen can view the world with suspicion, doubting the motives of others and being quick to take offence. In the midst of this situation, teen anger is something parents have to tackle frequently. Here are some anger management techniques for teenagers that can help your child as well as you as a parent:
Recognize the warning signs
You can help your teen indentify triggers that cause resentment, hurt, frustration or a feeling of having been disrespected. What are the situations, who are the people and what are the experiences that seem to trigger your teen’s anger? Indentify these and help your teen do the same. Also help your child identify the physical signs of anger: a flushed face, racing heart, clenched fists, in some cases even stammering or incoherence.
Help your child step back from the situation to look at it rationally
If your child is suddenly angry at something seemingly inconsequentially help him or her indentify the thing that is really the cause of the anger. Is it a relationship problem, a bully at school or other reason that is causing your teen to act out? Is your child misdirecting anger towards a convenient target which is really just a trifling annoyance and not the real reason for your teen’s frustration or unhappiness? If so help your teen identify what is really causing them to get angry and try to help them find a resolution to the situation.
Offer organization and time management tips
Help your child become better organized and subtly offer tips for better time management. Much of your child’s anger could stem from an inability to cope with all that needs to be done in a given day. Help your child prioritize and offer suggestions (not instructions) on how they can do more with their time. You can also actively help your child reach their goals without making it obvious to your child.
Help your child develop coping skills
Exercise can be a real stress buster and physical activity can help take the edge off your anger, giving you time to take stock of a situation. You can help your child develop similar coping mechanism. Deep breathing, taking a time out, listening to music, doing something creative can all be useful coping mechanisms that you can help your child develop.
