When an adolescent complains about parents in the group, the best approach is to:

• A. Jump on the bandwagon and agree with the child.
• B. Avoid taking sides but help him or her see the parents' point of view via role-playing.
• C. Talk only about positive experiences.
• D. Immediately put the child on the hot seat.

Answer: (B)

Handling adolescents who complain about parents in a group setting requires neutrality and a method that builds empathy and constructive dialogue. The best approach avoids taking sides and uses an experiential technique, like role-playing, to have the adolescent explore the parents’ perspective. This helps the young person understand possible pressures or constraints their parents face, teaches them how to express concerns without blaming, and models how to listen and respond more calmly in real conflicts. The goal is to foster perspective-taking and healthier communication rather than winning agreement or shutting down discussion.

Jumping on the bandwagon may validate anger but creates bias and can silence others, undermining safety and learning in the group. Talking only about positive experiences ignores real conflicts and misses opportunities to develop coping and communication skills. Immediately putting the child on the hot seat is punitive and can erode trust, making members less willing to share openly.