How will puberty affect your life: Relationship with Family

Puberty is a time of big changes, not just in your body, but in how you think, feel, and relate to others. It can be confusing to be in between two stages. You’re not quite a kid anymore, but still not quite an adult. Sometimes you may feel that adults still treat you like a child, and other times that they expect you to act more grown up. Along with these changes, you may start hearing new rules or restrictions at home. You might be told:

• “No more short clothes,” or other rules about what you can and can’t wear.
• “Don’t laugh in front of your father,” or other instructions about how to behave around male relatives.
• “Stay home in the evening.”
• “Don’t go here, don’t go there.”
• You can’t go out to play.

It is important to remember that your family is also getting used to the fact that you’re growing up. Sometimes they need some time to figure things out, too! Hopefully, you can figure it out together by communicating respectfully.