Kelly
Subject: Teenage Daughters
Question: Hi,
I have two teenage daughters (they’re twins). They’re 13 now, almost 14. I’m a little concerned about them for a couple of reasons. They seem to go through stages. First, one of them will be cheerful and happy, and the other will be fairly moody and aggressive.
Then, after a month or two, they switch. I’m wondering if this is normal, if all teenagers go through mood swings over extended periods like that, and if I can do anything to help whichever one is moody at the time. I’m also worried because they seem very shy and reserved.
They have friends, but after school they never go anywhere, they just hang around at home. They do this on weekends too. Sometimes I doubt they really have many friends, and I know this isn’t important. But I want them to develop good social skills, and they seem too self-conscious to do this.
Because I know they’re really shy, even at home, with family and family friends, I was wondering if there was anything I could do to help them come out of their self-conscious teenage shells!
Thanks so much!
~Kelly
Answer: Dear Kelly,
From what you are telling me you have two health normal teens you are worried about? Mood swings are common with teens and unless they are swinging in extremes I would just be grateful they are doing so one at a time. Can you imagine what your life would be like if they were on the same cycle?
As for their shyness it is okay. Maybe they are more selective and introverted?
From what you told me I am more worried about you. Try and view them in a positive light and not worry so much. I receive complaints from parents all the time whose children won’t stay home or do not prefer their parents company. They will leave the nest soon enough. Just relax and ENJOY them while you have them. Unless they tell you they are unhappy or not able to make friends let go and let them grow on their own.
Take care,
M Kay Keller
