Many times as parents, we wonder whether or not our teenager needs help. But many parents don't know how to recognize the signs of a teen who is in crisis. We created this assessment to give you an idea of your teenager's at-risk behaviors' seriousness and help you know how to identify a troubled or out-of-control teen. If you are parenting troubled or defiant teens, these questions will no doubt resonate with you. You may also use this questionnaire if you are concerned that your teen is depressed.
Does your teen fail to complete tasks that require effort regardless of the future importance of the task? (e.g. school work)
Does your teen attempt to negotiate and/or manipulate in order to avoid consequences and problems?
Does your teen justify negative behaviors by blaming others?
Is your teen unwilling to recognize the impact of his/her behavior on family and friends?
Does your teen use manipulation and deception in order to change others' points of view?
Does your teen have weekly outbursts or mood swings?
Does your teen avoid participating in family activities and social events?
Does your teen become impatient or easily agitated with others?
My child's behavior is very disruptive in his/her environment
Has there been a recent drop in your teen's performance at school?
Is it difficult for your teen to relate with others or make friends?
Does your teen frequently fail to finish schoolwork, projects or chores?
Does your teen fail to follow through with responsibilities or instructions?
Is your teen unmotivated?
Does your teen argue with adults and authority figures?
Is your teen failing one or more courses in school?
Has your teen undergone therapy and/or counseling without results?
Does your teen do dangerous things without considering the consequences, "a daredevil"?
Has your teen been physically abusive to animals?
Is your teen extremely self-conscious?
Does your teen appear depressed, sad, tearful or irritable?
Has your teen run away from home?
Is your teen sexually active?
Does your teen engage in self-injurious behaviors and/or threaten to inflict self-harm?
Does your teen use illegal drugs and/or alcohol?
Low Risk
Low Risk
Moderate Risk
High Risk
Your Child
your teen can be considered to be in the low risk category. Due to the number of behaviors that your child is exhibiting, there is need for some concern. Your teen may benefit from counseling, extra parental supervision and family activities.
Moderate Risk
Low Risk
Moderate Risk
High Risk
Your Child
Your teen can be considered to be in the moderate risk category. Adolescents in this category are exhibiting several behaviors that are disturbing to parents and are in need to help. We recommend individual and family counseling, as well as extra parental supervision. Possible placement of your child may be needed.
High Risk
Low Risk
Moderate Risk
High Risk
Your Child
Your teen may need immediate help. Adolescents in this category have engaged in a significant number of behaviors that are damaging, dangerous and/or life threatening. Immediate help and placement of your child is advised.
This test is not a diagnostic tool. Rather, it is an instrument that may help you to determine if your teenage son or daughter could benefit from a therapeutic setting. It may be beneficial for you to seek further clarification from a licensed mental health professional as soon as possible.
Do you believe your child needs help, does he or she need "a lesson" or "to get some discipline"? Boot Camps for Troubled Teens Are Not the Answer. We DO NOT endorse teen boot camps because they were proven ineffective and dangerous. Learn More!
