KEY TAKEWAYS:
Effective communication with teens always takes place within a relationship. 
Outside of a relationship, communication just operates on a cold factual basis 

CONCLUSION:
We need to spend time and energy building the relationship with the youth. 

Cry #6: You don't understand us? Well we don't understand ourselves! 
We must exhibit empathy as youths deal with the challenges of development. 

Cry #5: We want to be trusted.
We need to acknowlege youths as persons who are emerging into adulthoods. 

Cry #4: Will you be here for us?.
We must assure youths we will not abandon them. We keep our promises. 

Cry #3: We need a place to belong.
We must help the youth to also find themselves and purpose in this world 

Cry #2: We're hurting and hurting deeply.
We have to assure youths that we will be there for them and smooth their fears.

Cry #1: We're changing, confused and vulnerable. 
We need to assure youths that we hear them and are there for them, while they're going through their changes. We understand.

Empathy is about acknolwedging the feelings of the youths and ensuring we listen to them.  
Take a step back to attempt to understand your child's background or situation. Refrain from judging. 

It begins with us taking the first step as Respect can't be demanded but earned.
Are you showing respect to your youth? It sounds weird but it does help to thaw the gap. 

Appreciation is about giving appropriate praise, affirmation and it begins with You.
Are you expressing appreciation to your child?