Talking to Teenagers

Talking to teenage boys usually takes huge effort with little returns. The monosyllable "ok .. no .. yeah .. dunno" replies are a sure way of ending a conversation barely started.

Unsatisfied with so little response, the parent unleashes more questions hoping to open him up or that he would throw in more details. That can draw a look that screams " Urggh ... what a grump. Already said dunno. Why need to ask so many times !" Or the kind of look that says, "You're interfering !" And finally, an outburst uncalled for.

Often, I would think that being a parent (these days) to a teenager requires patience the size of the universe ! A generation ago, that kind of response would prompt a tight slap on the face for being utterly disrespectful to the elders, especially to your own parents !

Really, it is very difficult to lure a teenager into a decent conversation. Unless it is the topic of their interest. Like online games, some movie characters. I found out that it is easier to just keep quiet and observe these teenagers babbling among themselves...even if it makes little sense.

Their friends are their world. It is definitely a worthwhile effort to make friends with their friends. One great way is to offer transportation to these teenagers, and join them in their chatter while in the car. A great ice-breaker topic is on the opposite sex ! That sure would generate a lot of interest !