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Raising a teenager can be hard for any parent. These are the years when children undergo tremendous physical, mental and emotional changes. They are faced with typical adolescent issues - peer pressure, identity and sexuality issues, and the desire for independence.
Adolescents with ADHD are often less mature than other teens. For this reason, the teenage years may be particularly challenging for your child. Some of the strategies you used to control your child's behaviour when he or she was younger may still be useful. As your teenager begins thinking more independently, however, other methods may become less effective. Fortunately, you can continue to manage your child's ADHD symptoms with a few modifications to meet the needs of your growing teen.
Establish clear rules
You cannot bully your teen, but you can establish clear rules. Keep a short list of rules and post them somewhere visible (e.g. on the fridge).
Involve your teen in rule making
Your house rules are more likely to be obeyed if your teenager is involved in determining them.
Be consistent and united
If you are the only authority figure who is willing to enforce rules, your teenager will go to the person who will give them a break. Rules will only work if your spouse or partner, and your child's teachers, agree to support each another in enforcing them.
Monitor your child
Know what your child is doing and where he or she is. Keep track of your child's progress on tasks. Stay in close contact with the school.
Continue to reinforce positive behaviour and discipline negative behaviour
The actual rewards and consequences of your child's behaviour will probably change a bit, but the system can still be effective. Adolescents often respond to a points system that helps them work towards a long-term reward. The key point is to involve your child in choosing rewards that are valuable.
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