What to Do When Your Teen Turns Away

Teens’ moods can fluctuate wildly, but after several years it eventually dissipates in most teens. Parents can help during this tumultuous time by giving them understanding, attention, and affirmation. Kamira/Shutterstock

As your teen leaves for school, you open your arms to hug her goodbye. She receives the hug like a telephone pole being grappled by a porcupine. Ouch. Your heart drops. Where did your sweet little girl go? What did you do to make her rebuff you?

Dr. Meg Meeker. Courtesy of Meg Meeker