Dealing with Teenage Boys

Teenage boys can be difficult to deal with. They have their own unique set of challenges, and ways of thinking that make them who they are, and that often make them so difficult. The following is a look at some of the issues specific to teenage boys, and how to help them deal with those issues so that they, in turn, become easier to deal with.

• Puberty- When a teenage boy goes through puberty a lot of things change in their life, and this can affect their attitude and how they treat you. As they start seeing these changes, they might react negatively out of fear or insecurity. So, either talk to them, or find someone you can trust that can talk to the teenage boy about puberty and help them understand the changes, and how to adapt to them.
• Voice changes- Teenage boys often experience voice changes. Their voice will get deeper, and in the process there may be some squeaks and squeals. This can be very embarrassing and frustrating to a teenage boy, and his solution may simply be to not talk. Of course as an authority figure, having them not talk to you can be a problem. So, respect that they may be having some internal struggles with talking, and NEVER make fun or tease them about their voice changing.
• Involuntary erections- One of the most difficult things that you may face when dealing with teenage boys is the issue of involuntary erections. Many teenage boys are too embarrassed to talk to a parent about it, but aren’t exactly sure how to handle it. Most have experienced at least one, and some may struggle with this on a regular basis. So, talk to your teenage boy about this, and how it is a natural part of aging, and help them find some information on dealing with it.
• Girls- Teenage boys think about girls, often a lot. They are starting to become more aware of the physical reactions their bodies have to girls, and may be having difficulty controlling both their bodies and thoughts. So, talk tot hem about respect, and proper treatment. Make sure to set your ground rules for dating, etc. and discuss with them the consequences they will face if those rules are broken. Then encourage them to find healthy ways to interact with girls that are positive and won’t put them in compromising situations.
• Independence-Many teenage boys are starting down a path of wanting more independence. This often results in mouthing off, rebellion, etc. In order to better deal with this aspect of a teenage boy, it is a good idea to talk to them about healthy ways to exercise their independence without stomping on the boundaries that have been set.

Often the secret to dealing with teenage boys is helping them to deal with themselves. The following are three tips for how to help them deal, and how to deal with the attitude that often accompanies these issues:

• Open communication- Make sure they know you will talk to them, and help them feel comfortable asking you about questions and concerns, even sex.
• Consistent behavioral discipline- Be consistent in your discipline and behavior so that they know what they can expect from you.
• Information-Get them information, and be open about puberty and what teenage boys are going through.