Parenting a teenager is no easy task. Most teens hit a phase where they seem to become a whole different person from the kid you raised. They start developing new interests, wearing new clothes, hanging out with new friends, and thinking about the world differently. 

Unfortunately, some teens start to develop worrisome behavior changes that need to be addressed. As a parent, you’re bound to run up against some of these situations as your teen grows up. You might catch them in a lie or notice that they’re starting to take on some negative characteristics that they see in peers. 

When you start seeing these changes, it’s typical to ask yourself, “Should I be concerned about my teen’s behavior changes?” There are some specific behavior changes that should be concerning for parents and need to be addressed quickly. 

Concerning behavior changes in teens

Switching friend groups often

It’s pretty common for teenagers to switch their friend groups throughout high school. They might keep a few of the same friends they had in middle school or elementary school, but most will change. They will develop new friendships with kids in their class or with teammates. Some friendships will dissolve over arguments, or they will just grow apart. That’s all completely normal for teens. 

Pay attention if you notice that your teen bounces around to new friend groups all the time. This could be a sign that they have trouble maintaining relationships. They might not be making quality connections, or they could be trying to fit in with anybody who will accept them. 

Stealing

Theft of any sort should be taken seriously, but it is pretty common for teens to experiment with petty theft at some point. Most teens though will regret their decision and feel remorseful about what they did. 

Teens who regularly steal or who don’t feel bad about stealing could be dealing with mental health issues. 

Lying

Honestly, everyone lies from time to time. You will likely have to have conversations with your teen about the difference between “white lies” and harmful lies. And there’s no clear answer between which is which. Is it OK to tell your friend that they look good in their prom dress even if you don’t think that’s true? Or should you always tell the truth even if it hurts your friend’s feelings? These are the kinds of tough moral questions that you will have to have with your teen as they grow up. 

However, other types of lying are different. If your teen starts to lie all the time or specifically lies to get out of trouble, you’ve got a problem on your hands. Teens who compulsively lie are often dealing with concerning mental health problems that need to be addressed. 

Trying drugs and alcohol

It’s common for teens to experiment with drugs and alcohol during their teen years, but you should still take it seriously. Teenagers often don’t know their limits, and they can accidentally go too far and get themselves in trouble. 

Teen drug and alcohol use can cause both immediate and long-term harm. Many teens end up using drugs and alcohol as a way to numb negative feelings or to have fun when they feel shy. Learning to use substances as a coping mechanism from such a young age can lead to addiction in adulthood. 

Being disrespectful

Behavior changes in teens often coincide with disrespect and arguing. In many cases, teenagers are trying to exert independence, but they haven’t earned the freedom that they want yet. So, they act out in the easiest way they can: verbally. 

Your teen needs to learn how to respectfully disagree and how to accept rules that they don’t like. They won’t always get their way, even when they become adults. It’s important that they learn how to manage their emotions and communicate effectively while they are still young.

Does my teen need mental health treatment?

If your teen is exhibiting concerning behavior changes, they might benefit from mental health treatment. Start by talking to your child’s pediatrician or family doctor. They should be able to recommend some next steps for you.

There are numerous health screenings that your doctor could administer to help identify any underlying issues. Health screenings for teens are a good way to determine if your teen needs mental health treatments and changes at home to help them flourish. Based on the result of the health screenings, your doctor might recommend therapy or medication options.