Various theories of developmental psychology supported by facts indicate that adolescents often violate various rules, whether at home, at school, or in society. These violations range from minor infractions to those that border on criminal acts.
Why do teenagers often break the rules?
The first cause is identity crisis, related to the change in one’s identity from childhood to adulthood. The second cause is weak self-control, an inability to differentiate acceptable from unacceptable behavior in society, which often arises from family upbringing.
Lack of communication between family members or conflicts within the family can trigger negative behaviors in adolescents. Incorrect upbringing within the family, such as overindulgence, lack of religious education, or rejection of a child’s existence, can also contribute to bad behavior in adolescents.
How to approach it?
During adolescence, children demand more freedom and want to participate in decision-making. Therefore, it is essential to enforce rules and boundaries.
Teens should face consequences if they violate agreed-upon rules.
“Parents should clearly inform children about what is not allowed, give them the opportunity to negotiate and also foresee the consequences they will face if they break the rules,” says Dana Urban of the German Guidance Committee’s online guidance service. childish, cited by Star2.
For example, Urban suggests that parents should enforce rules or consequences if the teen leaves the house to play with friends without warning.
“For example, when they have to be home before midnight but arrive after the scheduled time, in the future they won’t be able to leave until midnight,” says Urban.
These rules or consequences must be applied consistently. “Don’t allow leniency at one time and scold or impose sanctions at another time. This will confuse the teen,” she adds.
In addition to firm consequences, Urban also suggests that parents clearly explain the rules.
Urban recommends that parents discuss rules and consequences with their teens. Parents can ask them to consider what consequences should be given for specific violations. Teenagers are more likely to obey the rules they help make.
Additionally, parents should maintain communication with adolescents. They should treat adolescent children with language appropriate for adults and not for children.
“This attitude usually allows them to think more maturely and automatically makes teenagers calmer,” she explains.
More importantly, parents must shape the character of their children. The thing isn’t only to make teenagers observe the rules, but also to help them develop a healthy heart and a sense of right and wrong.
