Avoid Criticizing
Photo source: Pexels Your first line of defense might be to criticize your child’s friend. However, according to Kristin Wilson, National Director of Clinical Outreach at Newport Academy, a teen mental health treatment facility, its best to steer clear. “Teenagers can be very defensive of their friends, and you don’t want to engage in a power struggle,” she says. In other words, by criticizing, you’re only going to make the relationship stronger. Instead, make clear statements about your observations of how their friends are acting. For example, “I don’t like the way she talks back to adults.” Next, review your expectations about your own child’s behavior and let them know that you will hold them accountable for their actions, regardless of their friends’ behavior.
Set Limits
Photo source: Pexels According to Wilson, “Your teen is challenged every day to navigate peer pressure and decide whether or not to break rules, which often leaves parents questioning if or when to step in.” However, remember that you’re the parent and can set limits for your child. If you know your child’s friend is engaging in behavior that you don’t agree with, set limits on how much time they spend with that child and where they see them. You might, for instance, decide that they can only see a particular friend in your home so you can keep an eye on them or cut ties altogether.
Talk Often
Photo source: Pexels Always keep the line communication open. Talk to your child openly and honestly about your concerns about their friends and ask for their input. “Focus the conversation on your child’s feelings about their decisions and their beliefs, and how their friends do or don’t influence them. You can add your own input as well—after all, you are still a very important influence for your child—but be sure to listen first,” says Wilson. If you’re unsure how to approach your child, here are some tips on communicating effectively with teenagers. If you’re wondering what to do if your child’s friend is a bad influence, remember to go with your gut, set limits and talk to your child openly and honestly. Featured photo credit: Sara Lowgren/Flickr
