Helping Your Teen Build and Maintain Healthy Friendships
As parents, we know how important friendships are, especially during the teenage years. Peer relationships shape identity, build social skills, and provide emotional support. But navigating friendships as a teen (or as the parent of one) isn’t always easy. From social media pressures to peer conflicts, teens face unique challenges. This month, we’re sharing practical strategies to help your teenager cultivate positive friendships while maintaining open communication at home.
Why Friends Matter for Teens
Friendships help teens:
● Develop identity – They explore who they are beyond family.
● Build confidence – Positive peer interactions boost self-esteem.
● Learn social skills – Navigating conflicts and communication prepares them for adulthood.
But strained friendships or bullying can lead to stress, isolation, or risky behavior. Here’s how to guide them.
How to Support Healthy Peer Relationships
1. Talk Openly (Without Interrogating)
● Chat casually about their day, friends, and interests.
● Ask questions like:
○ “What did you and [friend’s name] do today?”
○ “How do you feel about your friend group lately?”
● Listen more than lecture—this builds trust.
2. Get to Know Their Friends
● Invite friends over (offer pizza, games, or movie nights).
● Meet their parents—this helps you stay informed and builds a support network.
● For online friendships, ask: “What do you like about talking to them?”
3. Set Clear, Flexible Rules
● Agree on boundaries for:
○ Weekday vs. weekend socializing (e.g., no late-night outings on school nights).
○ Social media use (e.g., no phones during homework).
● Be open to exceptions for special events.
4. Problem-Solve Together
If conflicts arise (e.g., bullying, peer pressure):
● Help them brainstorm solutions instead of fixing it for them.
● Role-play responses to tough situations (e.g., saying no to risky plans).
5. Address Friendship Challenges
● If they struggle to make friends:
○ Encourage clubs, sports, or hobbies to meet like-minded peers.
○ Practice conversation starters (e.g., “What music do you like?”).
● If they prefer solitude:
○ Respect their personality but gently encourage social skills.
● If they won’t talk to you:
○ Suggest another trusted adult (e.g., aunt, coach, counselor).
Key Takeaways
✅ Stay curious, not critical about their friendships.
✅ Balance freedom with guidance—rules keep them safe without stifling independence.
✅ Model healthy relationships—they learn from how you interact with others.
For more tips, check out Triple P’s Positive Parenting Program at Parentingnow.org, or ask your school about social-skills workshops.
Triple P – Positive Parenting Program
Are you interested in receiving more parenting advice? Triple P Online – Positive Parenting Program
could be for you! This online parenting program allows you to take a parenting class in the comfort of
your own home!
If you live in Lane County, you can get Triple P Online for free by filling out the form on the Triple P page.
A staff person from Parenting Now will send you an access code within 24 hours and you’ll be able to start using the program right away! For more information about the program and to sign up visit the Triple P page.