Today's Tip for Families

[En español]

07-31-2021

Listening is Critical for Real Understanding

Some parents try to be so understanding that they alienate their teens, experts warn.

“Because of their fresh perspective, teenagers often feel their experiences are unique. They feel insulted when adults find their behavior transparent, their motivations obvious,” psychologist John Gottman explains. His advice to parents? When your teen freely opens her heart to you, don’t be too quick to say you understand.

Instead, take time with your listening. Hear your teen with an open mind. Ask her to tell you more. Don’t assume you already know and understand everything your teen has to say.


Brought to you by:

Nye County Schools
Pahrump, NV

[School Success Ideas for Families]

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