Learning Specialized Communication Skills will Strengthen Your Relationship with your ADHD Teen

Communication is important for any relationship, yet learning how to communicate in the most effective way with a teen with ADHD can be particularly challenging.

As a parent, you may be unsure of when to provide them with feedback, and how to do it in a way that doesn’t affect their self-esteem.

Some parents aren’t sure what feedback they should share with their teen, and what ones they should let go. 

While communication is essential for building healthy relationships and managing ADHD symptoms, it can be a significant challenge for parents of teenagers with ADHD.

In this blog post, we will explore some of the common communication challenges that parents of teenagers with ADHD face.

Digging Their Heels In

When teens with ADHD have something they disagree with their parents about, they may often dig their heels into their idea if you try to push back.

Teens with ADHD don’t necessarily enjoy arguing, but it can be hard for them to get out of it once they’ve gotten into it.

Teens with ADHD have an incredible sense of justice which can be a huge strength.

Arguments can also be very stimulating for teens with ADHD, which can make it harder for them to get out of them.

In my course, Raising Independent ADHD Teens, I go over exactly what to say to your teen if you find yourself stuck in this trap.

Inattention

Teenagers with ADHD often struggle with paying attention during conversations.

They may miss important information, interrupt the speaker, or appear disinterested.

To overcome this challenge, it is essential to create an environment that minimizes distractions.

• For example, you can have conversations in a quiet room without any background noise or visual distractions.

It is also important to make sure that the teenager is fully engaged in the conversation by using eye contact, active listening, and asking questions.

Executive Functioning

Executive functioning refers to the cognitive processes that help us plan, organize, and execute tasks.

Teenagers with ADHD may have difficulties with executive functioning, which can make it challenging to organize their thoughts and express themselves clearly.

To overcome this challenge, it is helpful to use visual aids such as diagrams or mind maps to help teenager organize their thoughts.

You can also break down complex ideas into smaller, more manageable pieces to make them more understandable.

Learning Specialized Skills for Parenting ADHD

Communication challenges are a common challenge faced by parents of teens and tweens with ADHD.

Even though they are challenging, with the right support, you can build a stronger relationship with your teen.

In my self-study course, Raising Independent ADHD Teens, I help parents learn communication skills individualized to ADHD that build a harmonious relationship.

To join the course and to find out more, you can check it out here.