It’s common for parents to feel frustrated when teenagers refuse chores or act defiantly. An article from Middle Earth suggests that such behavior is often a symptom of deeper issues like pain, fear, depression, or loneliness, rather than simple disrespect. The article advises parents to gather facts about the behavior, avoid assumptions, and approach their teens with open-ended questions and compassion. It emphasizes working with the teen as a team, modeling respectful behavior, and recognizing their suffering to foster cooperation and positive change. Source: https://middleearthnj.org/2024/09/30/when-your-teen-refuses-to-do-their-responsibilities/