I'm sure that we as teenagers have experienced times..........your needs and your frustrations will dwindle to nothing.

I'm sure that we as teenagers have experienced times when people we know well drive us up the wall and met people from time to time whom, for some reason or other, we just do not like. Can you remember times when your brother or sister seemed especially bossy, your teacher was cross with you for no reason at all, or a parent was being unnecessarily critical of something you had done ? Well, we meet these sorts of situations all the time. Life sometimes seems as if it is just a series of problems and arguments. For most of us, parents are probably the most frequent reason for such feelings. But, every young person has difficulties with teachers, arguments or rows with their friends.

Teenagers feel they have a lot to be angry or frustrated about life. It is hard when you want so much to be grown-ups, to be able to make decisions, yet have to ask your parents' permission. It is difficult having to wait for things, being continually held back by adult caution when you are sure you are ready and able to handle new experiences. It is frustrating to be treated like a child when you know you are becoming an adult. It is hard to have obstacles and restrictions placed in your way when you know you are capable and responsible and it is hard to have adults vary so much in what they expect of you and in what they will allow you to do.

One way of dealing with this situation is to get angry. This is justifiable anger and a small amount of anger can be a good thing. Anger can bring problems out into the open and it can help to get things done. Anger about unfairness, selfishness, greed or unfair treatment can help to bring about changes and to put things right. Another way to keep us going is to feel good about ourselves. The thing that is most likely to make us feel good is a happy relationship with another person. This is the sort of relationship we have within a family. Being praised, loved, valued as a person makes us feel good. We all have our doubts and uncertainties and it is support and words of encouragement from parents or other adults such as teachers that keep us going. Talk to your parents and other adults. Make them understand your needs and your frustrations will dwindle to nothing.

Summary: Teenagers experience frustrating moments with family and friends who may appear too controlling and demanding. In general, parents seem to be the main cause. Teenagers who feel mature enough to face life experiences are frustrated when parents question their maturity by asking teenagers to exercise caution. This is restrictive and unsupportive. teenagers are confused when adults show inconsistency in their expectations Showing anger to deal with frustrations is justifiable because problems are clarified and solved. Good feelings about oneself through compliments and encouragement help defuse frustrations. A heart to heart talk will help clear the air and create happy relationships.