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In the past few months, there was a period of time when my teenage daughter and I seemed to be fighting constantly over everything. Things seem to be smoothing out now, but our relationship is strained because of all of the conflict. What can I do to increase communication between us?
 

Using written communication rather than spoken communication can make it easier to share difficult feelings. With an adolescent, a shared journal may help improve communication. For example, you and your daughter might pick out a journal together, then take turns writing your thoughts in it and leaving it for the other person to read. Also, writing letters or e-mail may be easier than talking right now, and once the relationship has improved, you can begin to talk more.

Source: Kim Leon, Ph.D., Former Assistant Professor and State Specialist, Human Development & Family Studies, Human Environmental Sciences Extension, University of Missouri-Columbia

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Last update: Wednesday, May 13, 2009