Free Guide: What to Say When Your Teen Won’t Talk

Use the page for one concrete family task.

• Reducing pressure when repeated questioning is backfiring
• Communicating availability without demanding immediate disclosure
• Keeping safety responsibilities clear
• Creating a better chance of later conversation

Keep the resource practical and low-pressure.

1. Stop repeating the same question when the teen is clearly shutting down.
2. Use one brief statement that communicates availability or concern.
3. Give appropriate space while keeping necessary boundaries and supervision.
4. Return to the conversation later rather than treating silence as a final answer.