Who'd be a parent today? Teenagers can be just the most difficult of human beings. Of course that's not true of all kids as many teens do their parents proud and turn out as capable and decent adults.
But you don't need to look too hard at the news on TV and in newspapers to read how many young people get into trouble with drugs, alcohol, criminal activities, dangerous driving and even self harm. Those sorts of things are the stuff of nightmares for some parents.
So this brings us to the question of helping a troubled teen. There are several steps in the process. Here are just three.
- Find out exactly what is wrong
- Find out what has or is causing the problem
- Find out if what a boot camp offers is the right solution
But before you undertake any of the steps above, you should understand that teenagers are young people undergoing a massive change to their body and possibly lifestyle. Having a safe and a good time is not the sign of a troubled teen. As a parent you should be aware of your child's behavior and concerned for their welfare but do not see the first sign of high jinx as the beginning of a life of shame. In short, kids grow up.
But there are several obvious signs. Is your child too thin or too fat? Are their grades at school dropping suddenly? Are they mixing with the wrong crowd? Do they spend long periods of time alone and in their room? Do they argue constantly and even use bad language and show disrespect to you and others?
If yes, then there is a good chance your teen is troubled. But rather than panic and rush to condemn, try to remain calm. Remember listening is good so become a good listener. Then arrange to have your teen talk to someone who could help. The logical person would be your family doctor.
Guessing is not an option. If matters are serious then you must have your child assessed. Only then can you make whatever decision is needed regarding help. It may well involve sending your son or daughter to a boot camp. Many kids have gone to such an institution and found their life changed for the good.
But finding out what is wrong is not enough. You must discover the cause of the trouble. Why have their school grades fallen so dramatically? Why are they not treating you, their parents, with the right respect and love?
Then knowing both the cause and the type of trouble being faced by your teen, you can explore the facilities and programs on offer from various appropriate boot camps. When should your teen enroll? Well the timing is a matter for each teen and their parents. Leaving a problem to grow worse is obviously the wrong thing. Treat the matter with the respect it deserves and if the right boot camp seems the best fit, take the necessary steps.