A poor attitude is a hallmark of teenagers, a CHOC pediatric psychologist tells CHOC Radio.
Dr. Mery Taylor recently stopped by Seacrest Studios to talk about why teens often have bad attitudes, and what parents can do to mitigate the effects of a dour disposition.
A teen’s bad attitude can be a product of self-absorption and egocentricity, Dr. Taylor explains. Teenagers are working to determine who they are and what they want to be. Thus, they are often uninterested in performing tasks and duties that will not directly benefit them.
Parents should talk to children about the importance of responsibility, and establish existing privileges as rewards for performing chores and duties, Dr. Taylor says.