What's the difference between typical and problem behaviour?
Teen behaviours can be confusing and frustrating for adults. But a lot of those behaviours are happening for a reason. Many teen behaviours are signs of growth toward adulthood.
Problem behaviour is often an extreme form of common or typical behaviours. Something might be a problem behaviour when it:
- Causes more severe, long-term consequences. Examples might include damaging important relationships, getting into legal trouble, and failing in school.
- Causes physical or emotional harm. The harm may be either to the teen themself or to people close to them.
What are some examples of typical versus problem behaviour?
Teenagers are going through intense physical, emotional, and mental changes. Here are some of the types of growth that happen in teens, with examples of behaviours you might see.
Remember, even if a behaviour is common in teens, it doesn't mean that you should allow or encourage it. Remind your teen of your rules. And talk with your teen about choices that have long-term consequences.
Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If your teen talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away.
- Call or text Canada's suicide and crisis hotline at 988.
- Call Talk Suicide Canada: 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645 (4 p.m. to midnight ET).
- Kids or teens can call Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868.
- Go to the Talk Suicide Canada website at https://talksuicide.ca or the Kids Help Phone website at https://kidshelpphone.ca for more information.
Consider saving these numbers in your phone.
Try to handle the common behaviours as best you can. Remind yourself that this phase won't last forever. Teens eventually become adults.
If you see problem behaviours, take them seriously and address them quickly. Get help from a doctor, counsellor, or other professional if needed.