what teens really need to thrive (and how you can help)

Raising teens is about more than enforcing rules or letting them figure it out on their own. Clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour emphasizes that thriving adolescents need a balance of structure, empathy, and guidance. The past few years, including the challenges of the pandemic, have amplified the pressures teens face, making consistent support more important than ever.

Teens require warmth alongside clear boundaries to feel secure and supported. Emotional regulation isn’t something they magically develop; it is a skill that grows with practice and guidance. The way parents respond in everyday moments, whether to stress, social pressures, or emotional outbursts, shapes how teens learn to manage their own feelings. Honesty, authenticity, and empathy from adults help teens trust themselves and others, while health habits such as sleep, exercise, nutrition, and a sense of purpose support emotional well-being. Thoughtful parameters around screen time and social media use also help teens navigate a digital world safely and mindfully.

Understanding their emotional world and providing consistent, intentional support equips teens with tools to navigate challenges, build resilience, and grow into self-aware, confident adults. Parenting becomes less about perfection and more about presence, turning everyday interactions into opportunities for connection, guidance, and lasting impact. The episode dives deeper into practical strategies, explores the lingering effects of the pandemic on teen mental health, and highlights how to nurture autonomy while staying supportive.

Watch the full conversation with Dr. Damour on the Rich Roll Podcast here: