Dealing with Difficult Teachers

One problem teenagers face when they attend high school is how to deal with difficult teachers. Difficult teachers cause stress and thereby lead many normally happy students to having an attitude problem and receiving low grades. As parents, we will also have to deal with these teachers through our teens. So, it is beneficial to handle this problem as soon as it becomes apparent.

First, define who has the problem. You and your teen have the problem. The teacher is difficult, but that isn’t causing the teacher a problem. You cannot fix the teacher. You can only fix the problem you have with the teacher.

Second, deal with the problem you own. Explain to your teen – and if need be, to yourself in the mirror – that there are difficult people in this world and you need to learn how to deal with them. The best way to do this is by not allowing their misery to bring you down. Remember that it is their misery and you do not need to make it your problem. Throw up a positive attitude shield with a smile. This takes practice. But once your teen does it, he will be able to bypass gloom and learn what he needs to learn in that class.

Third, little things will still be unfair – that’s life. A pop quiz on information not even covered in class can be considered unfair. Your teen should be able to come to you and express their frustration over this injustice. You should feel free to agree with him. Then, let it go by finding something more positive to talk about or do. This will teach your teen resilience.

Check out our Index of Parenting Tips.

Recommended Book List:

• The Organized Student
• 10 Secrets to Mastering Any High School Test
• Where Should I Sit at Lunch?
  The Ultimate 24/7 Guide to Surviving the High School Years

Parenting Quizzes for Parents of Teens

• Quiz: Are you raising a healthy teen?
  
• Quiz: Is your teen safe online?
  
• Quiz: Do you have a case of parental burnout?
  
• Quiz: Is your teen over-scheduled?
  
• Quiz: Are you raising a mean girl?
  
• How Well Do You Really Know Your Teen?
  
• Screening Quiz: Is Your Teen Lying?
  

More on Parenting Teens.