Parents often worry about their kids. That is only natural. You will also likely want to keep an eye on their friends to ascertain whether they are a good influence. You might not be an expert in adolescent behavioral health, but you can still probably identify any bad apples that are spending time with your teen. Here are some signs your teen or adolescent is in bad company.
They Are Breaking Curfew All the Time
Responsible parents set a curfew for their kids. You probably want your teen home at a certain time, either on the weekends or on weekdays. If they keep breaking curfew, that could be a sign that they’re spending time with kids you won’t like.
They Seem Cruel
Maybe your child seemed pleasant during their early years, but now, you see a change in their personality. Many things can cause this, but often, it’s because they’ve become close to a bad crowd.
They Won’t Let You Meet Their Friends
Your kids should have no issues with you meeting their friends. If they’re spending time with a group, but they won’t identify any of them by name or let you meet them, that’s not a good sign. You should insist that you meet their friends so you can look them over.
They’re Secretive on the Phone
Your kids probably talk and text on the phone a lot. That’s natural, especially since the advent of cell phones decades ago.
However, maybe your child is secretive on the phone and tries to have conversations through talk or text that they won’t let you see. This might indicate that they have friends in their inner circle who are encouraging them to do things that could land them in hot water.
The Police Intervene in Their Affairs
If you find that the police are driving your teen home on the weekends, and they say they caught them shoplifting, loitering, committing acts of vandalism, and so forth, that’s almost always a sign that they’re hanging out with the wrong crowd.
Any time the police get involved, you need to intervene in your child’s life. They’re on the wrong path, and getting them to stop hanging out with friends who are a negative influence on them is probably necessary.
They’re Skipping School or They’re Late All the Time
You need to make sure as a parent that your teens are getting to school on time and not skipping classes. They must graduate so that they can go to college or at least attend a trade school.
If they’re consistently late for class or absent, and you hear about it, you should ask about their friends. It’s likely the kids they’re close to are also engaging in this behavior.
They’re Not Getting Good Grades Anymore
If your teen’s grades start slipping, you should figure out whether their friends are playing a part in that. Many times, you’ll find that they are.
The company your teen keeps can often reveal the direction they’re heading. Recognizing the signs that your teen or adolescent may be in bad company is crucial for their well-being and development. As parents and caregivers, it is our responsibility to ensure that our children are surrounded by positive influences that promote their growth and protect them from harm. By being attentive to changes in behavior, attitude, and social dynamics, we can identify potential red flags and take necessary steps to address the situation.
It is important to remember that adolescence is a critical time of exploration and self-discovery. While it is natural for young people to seek acceptance and belonging, it is equally important to guide them toward healthy relationships and steer them away from negative influences. Open communication, fostering trust, and providing a safe space for expression can go a long way in helping teens navigate friendships and peer pressure.
By understanding the signs of bad company, such as sudden changes in behavior, secrecy, declining academic performance, and engagement in risky behaviors, we can intervene early and offer the necessary support. Encouraging involvement in positive activities, fostering self-esteem, and building resilience can empower teens to make better choices and cultivate healthy relationships.
Additionally, as parents and caregivers, it is important to lead by example and be a positive role model. By demonstrating healthy relationships, open communication, and setting clear boundaries, we can guide our teens towards making informed decisions about their friendships.
Remember, every teen is unique, and the signs may vary from one individual to another. Trust your instincts and maintain an open line of communication with your teen. If you suspect that your teen is in bad company, seek support from professionals, such as counselors or therapists, who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Ultimately, by being proactive and vigilant, we can help our teens navigate the complexities of social relationships and empower them to surround themselves with positive influences that contribute to their growth, well-being, and success in life.
