Parents in İskeçe receive guidance on navigating adolescence through communication

A seminar organised by the Guidance Committee of the Association of Western Thrace Minority University Graduates and the Women's Branch of the İskeçe Turkish Union highlighted the importance of empathy, trust and effective communication between parents and teenagers.

The event, titled “Adolescence: From Conflict to Communication”, was held on Wednesday, November 4, at the premises of the Xanthi Turkish Union (Xanthi), with specialist psychologist Sibel Top as the guest speaker.

UNDERSTANDING THE CHALLENGES OF ADOLESCENCE

The seminar addressed the characteristics of adolescence, the changes young people experience during this period and the ways parents can establish healthier relationships with their children.

Adolescence was described as a natural and significant stage of development marking the transition from childhood to adulthood. Particular attention was given to emotional fluctuations, the desire for independence, identity formation and disagreements that may arise between teenagers and their parents.

Psychologist Sibel Top stressed that parents should approach their children with patience, understanding and without prejudice during this period.

She emphasised that listening to teenagers, acknowledging their emotions and creating an environment based on mutual trust are essential foundations of a healthy parent-child relationship.

Top also underlined the importance of seeking to understand adolescents' feelings and perspectives rather than allowing every disagreement to escalate into conflict.

PARENTS SHARE QUESTIONS AND EXPERIENCES

The seminar featured an interactive discussion in which participating parents shared their questions, views and personal experiences. Everyday challenges faced by families and issues concerning adolescent development were also discussed.

The organisers thanked Sibel Top for her contribution and engaging presentation, as well as all the parents who attended and participated in the discussion.

The central message of the event was that bridging the gap between parents and adolescents begins not with attempts to change young people, but with making an effort to understand them.

The organisers stressed that healthy communication starts with genuinely listening to children rather than trying to prove oneself right.