6 Ways Kids And Teens Act Out And What These Behaviors Mean

1 - Using drugs and alcohol - This behavior is a concern for many parents and can generally be explained in two different ways. The first reason common reason for teens to begin to use illegal substances is because they are being influenced by a negative peer group. Peer pressure is huge influence on teens and parents need to be vigilant about who their teen is spending time with. The second reason that teens are often driven to substance abuse is that they are attempting to self-medicate. If this is the reason for a teen's substance abuse, then they are likely dealing with a mental health issue. Unfortunately, using these substances often makes the underlying condition even worse.

2 - Gettting in fights - Everybody knows that kids and teens get into fights. It's part of growing up and shouldn't be taken too seriously unless it starts to happen frequently. If you have a teen who has been getting into fights regularly, then it may be time to take action. The best way to approach this is by having a frank conversation about why violence and anger is not the right way to deal with problems. If this doesn't result in a change in behavior, then it is possible that your teen is dealing with an anger problem and may need professional help.

3 - Lying - If your teen is lying regularly, then it is likely because they have something they are trying to hide from you. In many cases, this means a dangerous behavior like substance abuse, getting into fights, or stealing. Regardless of the individual issue, it is important that you address this lying and deception. Let your teen know that you realize they've been lying and want to help them through whatever it is they are dealing with.

4- Doing poorly in school - There are number of different reasons that a teen might begin to struggle in school and it is important for parents to understand these, so that they can get them the right help. One of the most common reasons for a sudden drop in grades is bullying. If your teen is being harrassed, it can become incredibly difficult to focus on learning. If the problem is more long-term, then it is possible that your teen is dealing with a learning disorder.

5 - Refusing to listen to authority figures - Every teen goes through a rebellious period. This is an important part of a teen establishing an independent identity. However, this process sometimes goes to far and makes a teen completely unmanageable. If this seems to be what is happening to your son or daughter, then it is possible they are dealing with oppositional defiant disorder. This is a disorder that can make it seem impossible to get through to teens and encourage them to make the right choices. Parents whose teens are struggling with ODD often turn to professional treatment programs for help.