During adolescence, communication generally decreases and a teen will confide less in parents. This is a fairly normal process and should not be overreacted to.

Listen to what is being said. Try to understand where he/she is coming from.

Be sure that you are giving him/her the proper attention and that he/she is not talking to a newspaper or to your back.

Don't dwell on mistakes, failures, or something they forgot to do. Give them positive communication and talk about their accomplishments, interests, etc.

Talk to them about their interests (e.g., music, sports, computers). Talk to them just to talk and to have positive verbal interaction.

Avoid talking too much, giving long explanations, repeating lectures, questioning excessively, or using other forms of communication that will result in the teen turning a deaf ear.

Try to understand your teen's feelings. You don't have to agree or disagree with him/her. Do not try to explain away his/her emotions. Understanding how he/she feels may be the primary comfort needed.

Don't overreact. Sometimes teens say things that are designed to get a reaction. Don't say “no” too fast. Think about the request and give a response later.

Create situations in which communication can occur (having the teenager help you with household tasks). Whenever possible, try to do things with your teen, rather than separately.

Avoid power struggles, confrontation, and arguing matches. Have the communication move toward a compromise situation, rather than a battle. When appropriate, involve the teenager in decision making and setting consequences for his/her behaviour.