Q&A: What do teenagers need from their parents?

April 23, 2026 - 04:14

Striking the delicate balance between supervision and granting autonomy is crucial for raising teenagers, according to developmental expert Greg Fosco. He emphasizes that parents must walk the fine line of staying involved while respecting their child's emerging independence to foster healthy growth.

Fosco explains that adolescence is a period of significant brain development, where teens are hardwired to seek new experiences and peer connections. This makes supportive guidance, not control, essential. He advises that parents should shift from being managers to consultants. This involves creating a family environment built on trust and open communication, where teenagers feel safe to discuss challenges without fear of harsh judgment or immediate punishment.

Effective monitoring, Fosco notes, comes from a place of connection rather than intrusion. Knowing a teen's friends, interests, and general whereabouts stems from daily, casual conversations. When parents listen more than they lecture, teens are more likely to seek their advice. Ultimately, the goal is to provide a secure base—a home defined by clear, consistent expectations and unconditional support—from which teens can confidently explore their growing world, knowing they have a trusted guide to return to.