Teenage phases are something every parent dreads! But in the end, they’re unavoidable. Being familiar with the many teenage phases your daughter is likely to experience can help you a lot when trying to deal with them.
Quiz Complete!
Get notified about new quizzes like this.
1. Entitled
One of the most common teenage phases is a phase of entitlement. In this age of instant gratification, it’s easy for teenagers to feel entitled. While this may make her appear selfish and ungrateful, remember that it’s just a phase and ultimately it isn’t her fault. One day, your daughter will look back and wonder why she ever felt so cocky and entitled- so long as you teach her the reason why it’s wrong.
***
Teenagers often feel entitled due to the culture of instant gratification they are surrounded by. This can lead to them appearing selfish, ungrateful, and cocky. It is important to remember that this is a phase and she is not to blame. As a parent, it is important to teach her why this behavior is wrong and how to act more responsibly. Additionally, it is beneficial to talk to her about the value of hard work and the importance of being patient and understanding. It is also important to remind her that she can achieve anything she puts her mind to if she is willing to put in the effort.
2. Idealist
Another stage most adolescents must overcome is the idealist phase. This happened to me in my freshman year of high school. I remember being certain I would change the world; I didn’t know how, but I was certain I would. And I thought anyone who disagreed with me was a close-minded pessimist who didn’t understand my vision... sound familiar? If you didn’t go through an idealist phase during your youth, you definitely know someone who did. It’s common and normal for teenage girls to feel like the world should be perfect and that they can make it that way, so just expect it!
***
The idealist phase often comes with passionate advocacy for social causes, from environmental issues to human rights. Suddenly, dinner conversations are peppered with declarations about going vegan or pleas to volunteer at shelters. It's a time when teen girls might create ambitious goals and develop a keen sense of justice. They envision elaborate plans to tackle societal problems, and sometimes they clash with reality—when they discover that change often requires slow, painstaking work. But this phase also fosters resilience and critical thinking, as they learn to match their aspirations with actionable steps and join forces with like-minded peers.
Frequently asked questions
Adolescence is that rollercoaster phase between childhood and adulthood. It's when your child undergoes significant physical, emotional, and psychological changes.
You'll notice mood swings, a desire for independence, and maybe even some rebellious behavior. It's like waking up to a new person every other day!
Absolutely! Teens often test boundaries as they form their own identities. It's their way of learning how to make decisions and stand their ground.
Listen to her without judgment, set clear boundaries, and offer unconditional love. Being there for her, even when she's difficult, makes all the difference.
If her behavior feels out of control or harmful, it’s smart to seek advice from a mental health professional. Sometimes a little extra help gives you both the support you need.
3. Rebel
The classic teenage phase... the rebel! Your daughter’s rebellion can be expressed in a number of ways - from partying, to lying and sneaking, to dating a guy you don’t approve of. I know that these are the things that make mothers cringe, so keep an eye out for the signs of a rebellious youth! While it’s normal for teenage girls to rebel as a means of defining their personality, it can still lead to danger which a caring mother like you would want to prevent.
***
Rebellious behavior can be a form of self-expression and autonomy. It is often how she begins to test limits and explore her own values, separate from yours. Encourage open communication without judgment; let her know that you are there to guide rather than dictate. Be sure to establish clear boundaries and consistent consequences. Remember, it’s a delicate balance between giving her the freedom to grow and ensuring she is safe and responsible. Keeping the lines of communication open is crucial during this challenging yet formative period.
4. Know-it-all
Moms are notorious for bragging about their kids - and why not? You’ve raised some awesome human beings capable of incredible things. However, it’s a different story when it’s your teen who becomes the braggart, and allows their self-praise to blind them. Know-it-all kids are often a nuisance to their friends and family, and arrogance is a bad trait you need to be on the look out for so that you can nip it in the bud.
***
Encouraging humility and empathy in your teen is crucial. Remind them subtly that while confidence is admirable, being overconfident can lead to isolation. Highlight the strength in acknowledging others' achievements and the value of teamwork. Emphasize the importance of listening and learning from those around them. It's all about the delicate balance of self-worth and modesty. Celebrate their successes, but also help open their eyes to the beauty of a shared accomplishment and the joy of inspiring others rather than overshadowing them.
5. Do-it-all
This phase may seem awesome at first. Finally your daughter is getting involved in and outside of school, joining clubs, trying out for teams, working hard in school. It’s a parent’s dream! But keep in mind that your daughter doesn’t always know her own limit. She will push herself too far trying to impress whoever it is she’s trying to impress, even herself. If she spreads herself too thin, you’ll be the one who has to deal with the consequences as well, so brace yourself for this phase and begin preparing for how you will handle it if it does come.
***
During the do-it-all phase, it’s paramount to encourage balance and prioritize her mental and physical health. Strike up conversations about the importance of self-care and setting realistic goals. Remember, it’s okay to say no sometimes. Establishing healthy boundaries will not only help her manage her time better but also reduce the risk of burnout. Show support for her endeavors but also guide her to reflect on what truly matters to her. Remember, your role as a parent includes being the voice of reason during the whirlwind of teenage aspirations.
6. Quiet
When your teenage daughter doesn’t talk to you, you may assume that she’s hiding something from you. But before you go digging through her diary, consider the fact that she may just be going through a quiet phase- and quiet does not equal secretive. Many teenage girls go through a quiet, reclusive stage more than once. It isn’t really much to be concerned about it, unless she seems hostile or the silent treatment seems to be lasting an extensive amount of time.
***
During these quiet periods, it's important to respect her space while still offering support. She may be pondering the complexities of growing up or struggling with internal emotions. Instead of prying, try engaging in low-pressure activities together. A shared walk or a gentle offer to chat over a cup of her favorite tea can show you're there for her without pushing her to open up. Remember, it’s a delicate balance between giving her privacy and ensuring she knows you're a reliable confidant if she needs one.
7. Melodramatic
We all know that stereotypical melodramatic teen! Well, she is real, and living under your roof! Very few young girls will survive adolescence without being melodramatic here and there. All you can do as a mother is grin and bear it, knowing that nothing bad can last forever.
Watching your daughter become a teenager is a bittersweet experience. At first, you’re excited to watch her become a women and start making major decisions in her life, but at the same time, raising her is such a daunting task that it’s difficult to focus on the good parts while you’re preparing for the many phases to come. What sort of teenage phases has your daughter gone through? How did you deal with them?
Comments
BornFriday: My 14yr old really worries me. She has only a few friends and refuses to go to school. Her father is little to no help and she seems really angry/sad/lonely. She bullies her younger sister. I agree with Lowtide819 - the 'fangirl' thing is huge. She follows a group of 5 l.a. lifestyle teens (who many people follow. They have tons of followers) but she acts and talks as if she knows them personally and they are her friends. I'm starting to get really concerned. Is anyone else having similar issues or any advice. I'm trying my best but nothing seems enough. Any advice will be received with huge thanks.
Hannah: I'm 14. Definitely rebellious, quiet and know it all sometimes. But I'm also an angel other times:)
addisom: #1 thank for the advice!
Zanna: so funny to remember that I went through the Quiet phase. I remember reading in my room for hours and my mom busting through the door to "catch" me. years later she told me that she thought I was doing drugs in there 'cause I was so strange and quiet. We had a big laugh at that! Every time she found me with my nose in a book! lol!
jovanni: #1 yes very much soooo much entitlement
Raschke: I'm a teenager girl and I agree with all of these!!! lol👌
Bettina: Am the do it all, I want to everything in school.
sassy-girl: I was the Sassy teenage my way or the high way and always quiet and spend most of my time around my family and my grandmama i miss to the moon and back
:
Feedback Junction
Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge