Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens

226: Encore: What Should I Do With Dicey Information About Other People’s Kids?

Jul 1, 2025
Navigating the tricky terrain of teen friendships, the discussion centers on how to handle sensitive information about peers. Balancing trust and safety, Dr. Lisa and Reena address the challenges of intervening when a teen reveals risky behavior. They emphasize the significance of empathy and adult guidance without overstepping boundaries. Organization and tools like Skylight calendars are introduced to help manage busy family lives, while the emotional burdens teens carry are also explored, highlighting the importance of proper support.
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ADVICE

Maintain Trust With Your Kids

  • Prioritize maintaining trust with your own children before deciding to intervene with other kids' situations.
  • Avoid making decisions that could harm your relationship with your kids and thus their safety.
ADVICE

Intervene In Life-Threatening Situations

  • Immediately involve adults in cases of life or death risks like suicidal statements or actions.
  • Choose carefully between confidentiality and safety, considering which outcome you can live with.
ADVICE

Use Teens As First Responders

  • Encourage teens to intervene with their peers first before adults step in.
  • Prepare teens for pushback and let them request adult involvement when necessary.
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