Open communication with teenagers vital, especially after runaway episode - Psychologists

SHAH ALAM - Psychologists stressed the importance for parents to maintain open communication with their teenage children, especially in the case of a runaway aftermath.

In incidents involving adolescents running away in the country, it is vital to highlight the significance of nurturing open communication channels between parents and their teenage children.

Malaysian Psycho Spiritual Well-being Association deputy chairman, Psychologist and Suicidologist Dr Adnan Omar said open communication with teenagers was crucial to foster trust and understanding.

"Rather than interrogating, parents should listen attentively to their teens' concerns and experiences, refraining from being overly controlling or judgmental. Validating their feelings and acknowledging their emotions without minimising them helps build empathy and rapport.

"Showing trust by involving teens in decision-making and praising their efforts boosts their confidence and encourages responsibility. Parents should explain rules thoughtfully, understanding that teenagers may push boundaries as they navigate their identity.

"Managing emotions calmly and engaging in activities together fosters positive connections and allows for natural conversations to unfold," he said.

After a teenager returned home following a runaway episode, Adnan suggested managing expectations by discussing potential challenges and encouraging open communication about their experiences.

"Allow space for gradual discussions and emotional processing, recognising that both parties may be overwhelmed. Be willing to compromise and address underlying issues that led to the runaway, initiating honest conversations without imposing immediate consequences.

"Establish clear behavioural expectations collaboratively and seek professional support if mental health or substance use concerns arise, ensuring comprehensive evaluation and assistance," he said.

Echoing Adnan's perspectives, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) Psychology Counselling expert Associate Professor Dr Fauziah Mohd Sa'ad explained that parents could facilitate open communication with their teenagers by creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment.

"Parents should actively listen to their concerns, validate their feelings, set clear and reasonable expectations and seek professional help if needed.

"Strategies for rebuilding trust and strengthening the parent-teen relationship after a runaway incident include acknowledging the teenager's feelings and experiences and apologising for any mistakes or misunderstandings," she said.

Fauziah added that it was equally important to establish boundaries and consequences, offer support and guidance, and engage in family therapy or counselling to restore trust and enhance the parent-teen relationship following a runaway episode.

Recently, it was reported that a 12-year-old girl named Siti Dhia Batrisyia Mohd Chairil Anuar who was reported missing on March 12, was found safe, five days later (March 17) while she was walking alone near a shop lot area in Sri Rampai, Kuala Lumpur at 2.28am.

Her mother Syarifah Rosfazila Syed Muhammad Fazili said her daughter was found by the police from the Dang Wangi district police headquarters and she was notified of the discovery by the Sri Rampai Rukun Tetangga patrol unit.

Syarifah said before her daughter's disappearance, she reprimanded the girl for missing school.