It can be confusing and painful for a parent to witness their child acting out, withdrawing, or becoming difficult to reach. Often, these behaviours appear to come out of nowhere—unexpected outbursts, refusal to follow rules, or sudden drops in motivation and self-control. But underneath these changes, there may be deeper issues at play. Children rarely…
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We often picture summer break as a laid-back time with plenty of sun and fun. But for parents of a teenager grappling with serious emotional, behavioural, or mental health issues, the summer months can feel more like an impending storm. Without school routines and consistent oversight, children may become more vulnerable to negative influences or…
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Parenting a teenager can be challenging at the best of times—but when verbal abuse becomes part of your daily reality, it can feel overwhelming, confusing, and emotionally draining. Name-calling, yelling, manipulation, and belittling comments are not just expressions of frustration—they’re forms of emotional abuse that can fracture family relationships and affect everyone involved. For family…
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For many parents, watching their child fall into the wrong peer group can be deeply concerning. Negative influences can shape a young person’s behaviour, decision-making, and self-esteem in ways that may not always be immediately noticeable. Over time, however, exposure to unhealthy friendships, peer pressure, and risky behaviours can lead to declining motivation, family conflict,…
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For many families, summer break is a welcome change from the school year, but it can also create challenges. Without structure, some teenagers struggle with motivation, time management, and social engagement. Too much idle time can lead to excessive screen use, lack of focus, and difficulty transitioning back into structured activities when fall arrives. Structured…
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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects many children across Canada. Its core symptoms—impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity—often manifest in disruptive behaviours that can significantly impact a child’s life at home, school, and within social circles. For many parents, understanding the link between ADHD and behaviour is the first step toward providing…
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For many American families, finding the right support program for their teenager can be a challenging and emotional journey. When teens face behavioural, emotional, or developmental challenges, parents often seek solutions that provide both structure and compassionate care. That’s why U.S. families are turning to Canadian youth programs, like Venture Academy, for the unique advantages…
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While occasional anger is a normal emotion, individuals with intermittent explosive disorder struggle to control their outbursts. They may find themselves getting mad over little things that do not typically elicit such a strong reaction. This can lead to strained relationships, employment issues, legal problems, and difficulty functioning in daily life. If your child is…
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Narcissistic abuse can have a devastating impact on a teenager. This type of abuse is characterised by manipulation, control, and emotional or psychological harm inflicted by someone with a narcissistic personality disorder. As a parent, it can be heart-wrenching to see your teen suffer from the effects of narcissistic abuse. You may feel helpless and…
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Conduct disorder is a complex mental health condition that can significantly impact a child’s behaviour. Teenagers with conduct disorder often exhibit a consistent pattern of aggression, rule-breaking, deceitfulness, and defiance. For parents, dealing with these behaviours can be incredibly challenging and stressful. Understanding the nature of conduct disorder and knowing how to effectively navigate these…
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