Managing Anger in Teenagers

Tips on Letting Go of Anger

Tips for Teens:

• Practice forgiveness
  
  
• Accept things you cannot control
  
  
• Change the things you can
  
  
• Simplify (focus on one thing at a time; stop and think!)
  
  
• Utilize the acronym STOP!: Stop, Think, Observe, Problem-Solve
  
  
• Think about the problem-solving pros and cons
  
  
• Build on positives

Tips for Parents:

When responding to escalating anger in teens:

• Maintain you composure
  
  
• Focus your verbal communication on helping your teen become calm
  
  
• Focus your nonverbal communication on helping your teen become calm
  
  
• Avoid criticizing your child’s bodily reactions to anger
  
  
• Communicate acceptance of your teen’s anger, but rejection of the inappropriate expression of anger
  
  
• Allow the expression of anger, as long as it is done respectfully
  
  
• Allow time for space and “cool down”
  
  
• Avoid being critical, sarcastic or threatening
  
  
• Clearly define your expectations
  
  
• Focus on the positives

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