At 16, teenagers will be more comfortable in their skin. They will have learned alot about themselves in the past few years.
Independence is still their main goal
16 year old teens are garnering many independent life skills. They will have more freedom and may even have a part time or seasonal job. Teens at this age often become more mature and more aware of their independence.As a parent, you should encourage your teen’s independence at this age. Teach your child to do their own washing, keep their room in order and be responsible. It’s important to teach that independence not only means freedom but responsibility.
Making friends with the opposite sex
16 year olds can often become very attached to their friends and often develop stronger relationshops with the opposite sex. However, they may not be able to control their feelings if another teen doesn’t feel the same way about them.Peer pressure can be very tough at this age. Parents can help by talking about the choices they have when someone is trying to manipulate them.
Mostly Happy and Are Interested in the present
16 year olds are only interested in what is happening right now rather than concerning themselves too much with the future. Parents might need to sit down and talk to them about topics such as the Leaving Cert and what they think they might like to study in college.
Concerned that your 16 year old Teen's Development Isn't Normal?
Many parents of 16 year old teens worry that they socially and emotionally developing either too fast or not fast enough. It is also at this age that parents begin to see warning signs of substance abuse or signs of mental health problems. Adolescence is frequently the time when social and emotional problems arise. If you suspect this is the case for your teen, you should seek help immediately.
