Risky Behavior

All teenagers have two sides: a mature, broadminded side, and an immature, impulsive side. The side you speak to is usually the side that shows up for the conversation.

Frame all conversations about risky adolescent behavior in terms of safety concerns, not judgments about a teen’s character.

Make it clear that we don’t want teens to worry about whether they might get caught, we want teens to worry about whether they might get hurt.

Encourage teens to blame their good behavior on you when they need to save face with their peers.

Be clear that you will never make your teen sorry for asking for your help.