A 'troubled teen' is a term used for a youth that is having problems which are causing negative
behaviors and if these problems continue to affect the teen, he/she will not develop into a happy
successful adult. These problems are beyond the normal issues that all adolescents face or they
could be the inability to deal with the normal issues teenagers face. They can be anything from
the teen’s environment like abusive relationships, poor peer groups or unsafe neighborhoods to
physical and mental health issues..
Warning Signs of Troubled Teens
Teens can all show these signs at different times, it’s when there are more than six of these
warning signs for an extended period of time that you will know you are dealing with a troubled
teenager. The warning signs are:
• dropping grades;
• extreme mood swings that do not fit the situation;
• volatile temper and/or intense sadness;
• loss of interest in activities;
• a sudden change in peers and/or avoids positive friendships;
• deliberately trying not to fit in with peers;
• becomes secretive;
• fails to comply with rules and limits;
• feels the need to avoid all consequences for misbehavior and turns to lying;
• teen begins to experiment with alcohol and drugs;
• finds humor in others distress;
• attitude is more surly and defiant;
• openly displays rebellion;
• and spending too much time alone or sleeping.