COVID-19

Your Teenager’s Reaction to Social Distancing

Things are not always what they seem. The young adults in your life may be exhibiting some behaviors that have you at your wit’s end. I would encourage to look past the behavior your child is exhibiting to what is causing it and realize that it may just be your teenager’s reaction to social distancing.

As the helpful graphic above (from joyfulcourage.com) illustrates, teenagers who are acting out are likely experiencing the impact of social isolation. At a time in their lives where the influence of friends has likely surpassed the influence of family, we have asked these kids to stay in a confined space with….you guessed it…their family. While the time together may be welcome to parents who have missed having their “baby” around, it is taxing on these kids who would rather be doing normal teenage stuff (life hanging out with their friends).

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March 26, 2020by Wayne Stocks
Written by Wayne Stocks
Wayne is the founder and executive director of Hope 4 Hurting Kids. He is a happily married father of four kids with a passion for helping young people who are going through rough times. In addition to Hope 4 Hurting Kids, Wayne previously started I Am A Child of Divorce and Divorce Ministry 4 Kids to help kids who are dealing with the disruption of their parents' relationship. These are now part of Hope 4 Hurting Kids. Wayne speaks frequently at conferences and churches on issues related to helping kids learn to deal with difficult emotions and life in modern families. Wayne lives with his wife, three youngest kids, three dogs and an insane collection of his kids' other pets outside of Columbus, Ohio. In addition to his work with Hope 4 Hurting Kids, Wayne is a partner in a local consulting firm, an avid reader, coaches his son's soccer team and is a proud supporter of Leicester City Football Club (and yes, for those in know, his affinity for the club does predate the 2016 championship). You can reach Wayne at wayne@hope4hurtingkids.com.