Teen boyfriend or girlfriend trouble?
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Losing a boyfriend or girlfriend, or not finding one, can make teenagers feel like failures, but there are things you can do to help your child.
Been dumped
- Tell them it's not a reflection on them or their personality. It's just that everyone is different and it often takes time to find the right partner.
- Say that at least they now have the opportunity to find someone nicer who will really appreciate them.
Not been asked
- Assure them it will happen, perhaps when they're not even expecting it.
- Do advise them there's no need to get desperate and go out with just anyone.
- Make them laugh by telling them some silly stories about your experiences.
By parenting expert, Jane Bidder
Dislike your child's partner
- Steer clear of Romeo and Juliet. Teens love the idea of forbidden love. There's nothing like disapproving parents to push two teens closer together.
- Don't panic. Early relationships tend to burn out quickly - one survey showed that at 15, relationships last an average of only three or four months.
- Don't expect rationality. Research has shown that when teenagers are in love it has a similar effect on their brains as cocaine. No wonder they're behaving oddly!
From The Parents' Book Of Checklists - From Toddlers To Teenagers by Sally Coulthard, working mum and writer
More help and advice
- Advice on talking about teenage sex
- My daughter got pregnant at 15: one mum's story
- What's your teen up to this weekend?
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Where to next?
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Help! My 14-year-old won't go out with her friends
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10 dos for parents
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Exploring your child's career options
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Helping your teenager say no
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How to help your stressed teen
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How to live with teenagers
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Six ways to boost your teen's confidence
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Talk even when they don't listen
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Time to let go
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Arguing with your teenager
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Dealing with stroppy teenagers
