Family conflict and teenagers
The occasional argument can be normal, but regular family fights can have a lasting impact on your teen. There are a number of things that you can try to support your teenager during family conflict. If you'd like to understand more about what causes family conflict and the impact it can have on teenagers, read our guide to family conflict and teenagers.
Otherwise, see below for our top tips on family conflict resolution and how you can support your teen when there’s conflict within the family.
Frequently asked questions about family conflict and teenagers
Conflict within families can arise around everyday issues like household responsibilities, screen time limits, academic expectations, money matters, and boundary-setting. External stressors from school, work, or major life changes can also spill over into family dynamics, creating conflict even in normally harmonious relationships.
Understanding that these disagreements are often symptoms of deeper needs or developmental changes can help families address issues more effectively.
Yes, conflict happens in most families from time to time, especially during the teenage years when young people are developing their independence.
What truly matters isn't trying to avoid family conflict entirely but focusing on how to handle conflict when it does arise. The goal is approaching disagreements with respect, really listening to each other's perspectives, and working together to repair relationships and move forward constructively. Learn more about how to manage family conflict when it arises.
Family conflict involves disagreements or arguments, but family violence is about control, fear and harm. Domestic violence, whether physical, emotional, or financial, is never okay. If you’re worried about violence in your home, it’s important to seek help immediately.
Find support services for domestic violence in this guide or call 1800 RESPECT if you’re experiencing family violence.
Family conflict can't be completely avoided, and that's actually okay. Conflict is a natural part of family life, especially as teenagers develop their own opinions and seek greater independence. What makes a difference is learning healthy ways to navigate family conflict when it arises.
Developing good communication skills, problem-solving techniques, and relationship repair strategies helps families work through conflicts more successfully and often emerge stronger from challenging situations.
When your teenager seems to be adding to family tension, the most important thing is to wait until emotions have cooled down before trying to address the situation.
Take time to really listen to their perspective and try to understand what might be driving their behaviour – are they feeling unheard, overwhelmed, or struggling with something else? Setting clear, consistent boundaries while also modelling the respectful communication you'd like to see can help break negative cycles and improve your family dynamics over time.
Teens can actually benefit from seeing parents respectfully disagree and resolve issues, learning vital conflict resolution and relationship skills. However, if arguments become heated, intense, or involve adult topics, it’s best to pause and continue privately.