Today I overheard the conversation—or should I say the arguments—between my neighbor Mrs. Kapoor and her teenage daughter, Ananya. Somehow, it took me back to when I was a teenager and used to be just as aggressive as Ananya.
Teenage is that strange transition phase where you’re not a child anymore, but not fully an adult either. During this time, parents usually start letting you make more of your own decisions—choosing hobbies, friends, after-school plans, etc. But since you’re still maturing, your decisions might not always seem convincing to your parents. Complicated, right? It is indeed.
A Glimpse into a Mother-Daughter Argument
Back to the argument I overheard: it was about Ananya wanting to go on a trip with her friends. Mrs. Kapoor, concerned for her safety, was against the idea of her going alone. The disagreement escalated quickly. I could hear Ananya screaming, things breaking, and finally a door slamming. Mrs. Kapoor was shouting at her for misbehaving.
This is just one instance of teenage aggression. Studies show that around 63% of teenagers exhibit aggressive behavior. This behavior can stem from various internal and external factors:
- Inability to cope with peer pressure
- Hormonal changes during puberty leading to mood swings
- Complicated social lives
- Academic stress and school pressures
Understanding Teen Anger Types
Often, parents are unaware of what causes such behavior. This leads to misunderstandings, with parents labeling teens as “mannerless” or “disobedient.” But teens express anger in different ways:
- Assertive Anger: A healthy form of anger where teens communicate their frustration without harm or threat.
- Passive Anger: Teens suppress their anger, ignoring it because it feels uncomfortable. This often leads to built-up stress or even physical ailments like ulcers.
- Aggressive Anger: Teens lash out violently—toward people, animals, or objects—causing damage to their relationships and environment.
The Risks of Uncontrolled Anger
If not managed properly, aggressive behavior can lead to:
- Headaches
- Stroke and hypertension
- Sleep disorders
- Social isolation
- Depression—one of the leading causes of teenage suicide
Healthy Ways to Manage Teen Anger
Managing teen aggression is not only necessary but also very possible. Here are some proven strategies:
- Acknowledge the anger: The first step is to recognize and accept the emotion.
- Accept the emotion: Don’t ignore or suppress it. Accepting it helps you address it properly.
- Self-awareness: Observe your thoughts, emotions, and physical reactions. Ask yourself: What am I feeling right now? Why?
- Deep breathing: A simple but powerful technique that activates the body’s relaxation response. It can be done anytime, anywhere.
- Thought control and relaxation: Redirect that negative energy into creativity or productivity.
Guidance from the Right Environment
Teenagers thrive best in environments where they are understood and supported. Educational institutions also play a major role in a student’s emotional development. If you’re looking for a college that focuses on holistic student growth, Biyani Girls College in Jaipur offers professional counseling, value-based education, and a nurturing campus culture that supports mental and emotional well-being.
Conclusion
Teenage is a fragile yet powerful phase in one’s life. Teens are juggling so much at such a young age, and they need love, care, and most importantly—understanding. Adults must remember that they, too, once walked this path. With proper guidance and empathy, almost 70% of teens overcome anger issues. All they need is support, not scolding.