Conflict can occur when two individuals disagree on their respective beliefs, values, or views. It’s not always just about arguing and shouting though.
Conflict may occur immediately preceding an argument where there is a difference of opinion, ideas, and views.
This can then escalate to heated discussion due to different views before the situation may become heated and an argument ensues.
Not all conflict is bad and indeed, when managed correctly, can help to resolve issues and clear the air.
Parents and teens have many opportunities to disagree with one another on any number of issues.
Adolescence is a time when independence and parental influence collide because teenagers are starting to think for themselves, while still living with parents who have rules and expectations for them.
Teenagers do not always share their parents’ ideals and values, and their desire to follow their own beliefs and values often clashes with their parents’ desire to keep them safe and in line with their own belief system.
When you’re raising teenagers, disobedience and irritating behaviour are unavoidable. When your teenager zones you out, rolls their eyes and refuses to speak to you this may be annoying to you at times.
Recognize that teenagers may gain power by ignoring you. They understand what sets you off. Ignoring you may give them the sense that they have some control in a situation where they may otherwise feel they have none. One of the few things they have complete control over is where they direct their attention. They may zone you out because they can, and you can’t compel them to listen.
The difficulty for parents here is to avoid engaging in the war of inattention. The more you attempt to force a teenager to behave the way you desire, the more they may rebel.