Parenting Today's Teens

Could your efforts to raise a responsible, well-adjusted teen actually be driving them away? In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss three common parenting mistakes that can damage relationships with teens. Mark explains why approaches that worked during childhood often backfire during adolescence and how parents can communicate expectations, maintain authority and uphold their values without creating resentment or distance. You'll also hear from Heartlight teen Josh, who shares how the pressure to meet others' expectations contributed to anxiety, depression and substance abuse — and what he's learned about accepting his imperfections and taking responsibility for his life. Tune in to discover how small changes in your parenting approach can help you rebuild trust, reduce conflict and draw your teen closer instead of pushing them away.
How do you know if you need outside help with your teen? Learn 10 characteristics of a teen who needs intervention here: bit.ly/does-your-teen-need-intervention

Have you ever wondered why the parenting strategies that worked so well when your children were younger suddenly seem ineffective? You're not alone. In this episode, Mark explores how today's rapidly changing culture is influencing adolescents and creating new challenges for families. He explains why parents must adapt their approach as children mature, balancing appropriate boundaries with greater independence while providing a safe haven from the pressures teens face every day. He also challenges parents to reconsider their priorities, embrace their teen's perspective and bridge the growing gap between generations. Tune in to discover why staying connected to your teen's heart matters more than ever.
Learn the biggest wedge-builders between you and your child and how to fix them at bit.ly/addressing-the-wall-between-you-and-your-teen

Ever wonder why some teens push the limits, break rules or slip into risky choices like substance use? It’s not always about rebellion — sometimes, it’s about wanting to fit in or just find relief from pain. In this episode, Mark talks with two Heartlight residents whose stories echo the same deep need to be seen and accepted. Both struggled with family misunderstandings, the challenge of changing environments and the temptation to escape through drugs. They open up about how their search for connection — and the feeling of being misunderstood at home — set them on a rough path, and how honest conversations and newfound trust have started to shift things. Listen in as these teens get real about what belonging truly means.
To learn more about the Heartlight residential program, visit heartlightministries.org

Dating can be an exciting milestone for teens, but it can also raise plenty of questions and concerns for parents. When should dating begin? What boundaries are appropriate? And how involved should parents be? Mark and Wayne discuss how parents can guide their teens through dating while helping them develop healthy relationship skills. Mark shares practical advice on communicating expectations, adjusting boundaries as teens mature and staying involved without becoming overbearing. You'll also hear from a Heartlight teen, who shares how loneliness and a longing to feel loved led her to become overly attached to her first boyfriend — and what she's learned about friendship, emotional dependence and her own self-worth. Tune in for practical guidance on helping your teen navigate dating, recognize unhealthy relationships, and make wise choices about love and commitment.
When and how should you talk to your teens about sex? Get Mark's tips here: parentingtodaysteens.org/articles/how-to-talk-to-your-teen-about-sex

In this episode's Q&A, Mark dives into the ever-evolving topic of teens and technology, responding to parent questions about social media limits, setting boundaries around phone time, and navigating flirty or inappropriate online conversations. He focuses on strategies to balance healthy boundaries without damaging the parent-teen relationship, and the importance of shifting approaches as kids move from preteen to teenage years. Mark also offers practical advice on what rules to set around device use, how to address risky online behaviors and why fostering responsibility — rather than just enforcing rules — prepares teens for greater independence. If you're wrestling with how to keep your teen safe online without pushing them away, this episode is packed with great stories and wisdom.
Facing a parenting puzzle you can't solve? Ask Mark! Go to markgregston.com to submit your questions.