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Being a new mom and having a teensiblingcan be hard, especially when youre living together.
When this mom agreed to take in her teen brother, she didnt think it would backfire one day.
In an effort toprankher, the teen pretended to throw her baby down the stairs.
After her loved ones started telling her she overreacted, the momasked what netizens thinkabout this situation.
She also told us how parents can talk to teenagers about the difference between harmless fun and cruel pranks.
As they become teenagers, their sense of humor can change as well.
Young children enjoy simple jokes and silly antics, Dr. Kimberly Lemke explains.
Whilekidsplay mostly for fun, teenagers often use humor to deal with feelings like stress or insecurity.
First, they might still be forming their identity.
Emotional ups and downs during adolescence can lead to insensitivity, as humor becomes a way to cope.
Its not unusual for teens to first do or say and only think after.
Plus, since they have less life experience, they might not understand whats appropriate, Dr. Lemke adds.
Recognizing these factors can help adults guide teens toward better communication and empathy.
She emphasizes the importance of active listening in these conversations.
Give your full attention, show interest, and respond thoughtfully to what they say.
She also encouragesparentsand guardians to share some personal stories to make the matter more relatable.
Telling your adolescent about your own mistakes helps to normalize these conversations, encouraging teens to open up.
Validate their feelings, letting them know its okay to be confused about social dynamics, Dr. Lemke adds.
Encourage empathy by asking questions like, How would you feel if that happened to you?
or What do you think the person being teased is experiencing?
Its important to emphasize empathy and help them understand the impact of their actions, both short and long-term.
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