Life as a teenager in 2025 is not easy. Technology, social media, politics, and aliens? Are you a teenager who feels misunderstood by your parents? If you want to find ways to meet in the middle with your parents then keep reading.
1. Social Media: times were different when they were growing up. Teen life may have been different than today’s world of Snapchat and TikTok. Avoid reminding them that they are dinosaurs who don’t understand. Focus on the strategy of stressing the importance of social connection as a way to feel like you belong.
2. The Generational Gap: different environmental contexts can create a gap in understanding between parents and children. Parents may not relate to the struggles that teenagers face today. These include modern educational demands and a shift in cultural norms or values. The difference in personal experiences can lead to conflicting perspectives. This makes it hard for them to grasp the dream of becoming a famous Youtuber one day.
3. Parenting Styles: Parents can seem so out of touch with your teenage life in today’s world. This may be true but that doesn’t mean their life experiences can’t apply to your struggles today. Think about the way they were brought up and how that may affect your parents’ outlook on the world. Their parenting style may be related to their parent’s parenting style. Commit to improving communication with your parents in order to bridge the gap. If there is a disconnect in their approach and what works for you, be open to having a discussion.
4. Biology: Consider that you don’t know everything yet…. I know you are almost an adult. You are worthy of love, acceptance, understanding, empathy, and patience…. However… it may be a possibility that your parent can see a bigger perspective than you can. No, parents are not always right. They may not always be fair. However, it is worth considering that they likely have your best interest in mind. Be patient with them and remember that your brain is not done growing yet. It’s possible that they could be right sometimes.
5. It’s a Journey: Above all else remember that things don’t have to change overnight. It’s a long road and know that it’s worth the effort. Every relationship requires work even the one with your parents.
“Parenting is the easiest thing in the world to have an opinion about, but the hardest thing in the world to do.”
– MATT WALSH
TOYAMA THERAPY COMPANY 