The Center for Public Mental Health (CPMH) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held an online lecture (kulon) titled “Teening Your Parent: Embracing Differences, Cultivating Understanding” on Friday (July 4). The webinar, attended by students, university undergraduates, professionals, and educators, aimed to offer insights for teenagers on how to communicate effectively with their parents to avoid unnecessary conflict.
The first speaker, Nurul Kusuma H., M.Psi., Psychologist, presented an in-depth discussion on the psychological development of adolescents aged 10 to 16, and also explored differences in parenting styles between Generation X and Generation Y parents. These two topics served as a foundational framework for participants to understand perspectives from both sides—teenagers and their parents.
“Conflicts between parents and teenagers often arise from differing viewpoints. Teens are in a phase where they want to assert their independence and make their own decisions—whether it’s about friends, school, money, or social media. Meanwhile, parents still tend to see them as children who need protection and guidance,” Nurul explained.
She emphasized that resolving conflict should not fall solely on parents. Teens also need to learn to understand their parents’ perspectives so that communication at home can become healthier and less prone to misunderstandings.
The second speaker, Wirdatul Anisa, M.Psi., Psychologist, offered 13 practical tips for teenagers to use when communicating with their parents. These included: listening attentively, not interrupting, and expressing thoughts clearly and calmly. She also recommended giving space when emotions run high, and finding the right moment to talk—such as during light activities together.
“If you can’t reach an agreement, take a step back to calm yourself and understand that compromise is often the best middle ground,” she said.
“A resilient family is formed when every member plays their role accordingly. One role teens can take in strengthening the family is working together with their mother and father to face challenges and problems as a united front,” Wirdatul concluded as she wrapped up the afternoon webinar session.
Writer: Relung Fajar Sukmawati