by Ellen Page

Created on: January 19, 2012   Last Updated: January 22, 2012

Once children reach the teen stage they can become more difficult to handle. Discipline techniques that may have been effective before are not likely to be successful as they transition to the teen years. Teenagers are at that important, yet tricky stage in life from transitioning from child to adult. The in between stage can cause trepidation and frustration at times, and as their hormone levels are changing, so can their moods and behavior. Additionally, they are at a stage where they want to push their boundaries to feel grown up and independent. However, they still need guidance and parenting, as well as disciplining when necessary.

Here are some effective discipline tips for teens:

• Pick your battles

Teens are at a fragile milestone where their hormones can take over at times. They are also at a transitional stage that can be difficult for them. During their teen years they can be fraught at times, which is why it is important to pick your battles. Constantly nagging for no reason devalues discipline, as teens learn to zone out. Nagging for every little reason really is ineffective and only causes stress to all involved. Deciding which behavior is just irritating and what needs to be corrected is important to be able to effectively discipline teens. Niggles are best ignored, and discipline should be reserved for times when it is needed.

• Communication

It is important to keep the lines of communication open with teens, which is not always easy to maintain. Keeping a solid relationship and being able to communicate is essential to be able to keep the relationship healthy. Teens may act like they no longer need their parents, however, they are at a vulnerable stage in their life where they need support and guidance. Having a good relationship can help to reduce negative behavior, as well as helping to understand their feelings. Find ways to strengthen the relationship to encourage better behavior. It is important to stay connected.

• Be true

The most effective form of discipline is to treat teenagers in the same way that you would any adult, with a level of respect and maturity. Old discipline methods can make them feel undermined and juvenile. Approaching a teen with a true and realistic manner can prove to be far more efficient in engaging them and getting a response from them. If they have misbehaved or broken the rules, show disapproval and voice concerns in a low tone with an assertive edge. By using this tone and expressing

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