Teen anger can be confronting

This prompted the latest theme for the Parents of Teens Support Group.

‘Adolescence is recognised as a period of significant growth and change for a teen’s brain, body and their emotions, which often creates confusion and frustration,’ Ms Langford said.

‘Many teens struggle when dealing with stress and strong feelings and at times may not show good self-control or judgement.

‘Anger is a normal feeling for all of us at some time, but without safe ways to manage and respectful ways of dealing with conflict, this can explode into aggression and violent behaviours.’

Ms Langford said mothers and female carers are most likely to be affected by violent teenage behaviour in the home.

‘Parents experiencing this often feel afraid, ashamed, isolated and don’t know what to do to prevent it reoccurring,’ she said.

‘Many keep it secret and avoid involving the police or other external agencies.’

Ms Langford recommended that parents call police if their teen’s behaviour becomes aggressive, controlling, threatening or violent.

The support group session runs at Billy Dower Youth Centre from 12.30pm-2.30pm on October 17. Call 9581 3365.