Handling Teenagers - Give Respect to Get Respect

Lack of mutual respect is a major issue between elders and teenagers.
Elders complain that they are not getting enough respect from their teens and the teens are also complaining that elders are not giving any respect to them. Let us analyze first what this controversial word respect really is. According to Webster, respect is a courteous consideration of another person. It is how you treat the other person while making your decisions and enforcing your rules.

You might show courtesy to somebody without agreeing with their thoughts but it is not respect.
Respect comes from within; it cannot be demanded but earned.
One thing the elders should always keep in mind that the way they are thinking might always be right. On the other hand teens should not fall in to the misconception that disagreement to their demand means disrespect or lack of love.

We must agree that all the problems between elders and the tees are generated from these misconceptions.

Both elders and teens have to be more careful in dealing with each other to keep a loving environment in the family as well as society.
What is to be done? Where are some points for elders regarding exhibition of respect to their teens.
The first and foremost thing is to spend more time with your teens.

Try to dine together with all the members of the family and share your day's sharable experiences.

When there is any decision to be taken for the common interest discuss the issue with all the members including your teen members; this would help them to feel responsible and also they would think that they were given due respect. Play with your teens when possible, tell them the stories of your childhood. Spend some weekends at outstations with entire family this would build mutual respects and love among the family members.

Here is something the teens should follow.

Try to understand the feeling of your parents or elders; they are not your enemy but your well-wishers.

If they disagree to something you are saying it might be the result of their experience.

Do not think that disagreement to your demand does not mean that they do not respect you or do not love you.

There might be several genuine causes for their denial; it might be harmful for you in the long run or it might be due to their financial incapability. Keep faith in them and remember that they become more worried when they deny something to give you or punish you.
The final word is that if you give respect to them you would certainly get the due respect from them. This is equally true for both elders and the teens.