When we talk about the parent-child relationship the focus primarily remains on toddlers but adolescents are of an age group who struggle with establishing their identity. They also need support from parents to deal with the changes they are going through. No parent and adolescent make it through the 10 to 12 years of coming-of-age period without frequently going through times when they are unhappy with themselves and one another as youth continually transforms. Adolescence can be taxing for both parties as growing apart makes them more distant. Whenever we talk about the adolescent age group, the adjectives which adults use are “moody”, “irritable”, “choosy”, “stubborn”, “non-accommodating,” etc., but had we sat and discussed with them why they behave in a certain way? Globally, it is estimated that 1 in 7 (14%) 10-19 year-olds experience mental health conditions, yet these remain largely unrecognized and untreated. Adolescents with mental health conditions are particularly vulnerable to social exclusion, discrimination, stigma (affecting readiness to seek help), educational difficulties, risk-taking behaviours, physical ill-health, and human rights violations. The data states that children of this age group are more vulnerable and can easily get influenced by distractions around them. They are constantly struggling to “fit in” in the peer group and competition to prove themselves. The shift from childhood to teenage is not easy for parents as well as the youngsters. It's very important that parents understand the challenges of the youngsters. To make the journey smooth with the children, parents can remember and practice to be a PLANNER with the following : Be patient Be a listener Acknowledge their challenges Become approachable Being non-judgmental Always empathize Being respectful Some of the benefits parents might observe in their children after practicing PLANNER are: Encourages the growth of the child's mind, language, and emotions. Encourages the child to display upbeat and self-assured social behaviors' Better social and intellectual abilities are built on healthy parental participation and intervention in the child's daily life. A strong relationship influences healthy social, emotional, cognitive, and motivational growth. When kids have a good relationship with their parents, they develop great problem-solving abilities. Contributed by Dr. Archana Sharma
