Parenting Today's Teens

Every parent wants to protect their child from pain. But what if some of life's greatest lessons come through it? Mark shares a personal story that transformed the way he thinks about pain and parenting. He explains how emotional pain often drives unhealthy behaviors, why teens sometimes make destructive choices simply to find relief and how parents can avoid rescuing their children too quickly. Instead, he encourages families to see pain as an opportunity for growth, maturity and deeper dependence on God. Tune in for a fresh perspective on helping your teen grow stronger through life's inevitable challenges.

In this article, Mark identifies the pain that may be driving your teen’s behavior, and shares practical steps for getting to the heart of the matter: bit.ly/dealing-with-the-hurt-behind-the-behavior

Teens don't always know how to work through big emotions like hurt, rejection or anger. Their inner pain often spills outward, resulting in some poor choices. In today's show, Mark talks with two young ladies at Heartlight, including Amber, who talks about how being adopted and feeling rejected by her birth parents left a deep void, one she tried to fill with unhealthy relationships and rebellion. These young women both discovered that real acceptance can’t be found in taking risks or seeking approval from others — it starts with healing on the inside. Listen in for an honest look at what it really means to belong!

Is Heartlight the right choice for your struggling teen? Go to heartlightministries.org to learn more about the residential program.

As marijuana becomes more accepted in today’s culture, many parents are wondering how to respond when their teen is exposed to it — or begins using it. In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss the growing prevalence of teen marijuana use and why the issue often runs deeper than the drug itself. Mark explains how anxiety, depression, peer pressure and the desire to escape emotional pain can drive substance use, and why parents should focus on the underlying struggle, not just the behavior. Tune in for practical guidance on approaching this difficult conversation with truth, wisdom and compassion.

Learn signs your teen may be using marijuana and more here: parentingtodaysteens.org/articles/teens-smoking-weed-2

In today's Q&A episode, Mark dives into topics like why teen boys are more image-conscious than ever, how to handle a 17-year-old reading inappropriate romance novels and what consequences make sense for a teen who’s skipping class. Mark also addresses concerns about a young adult son who’s become withdrawn after a strict, non-relational upbringing, as well as how to support a 14-year-old with sensory processing challenges. With his signature blend of empathy and practical advice, Mark walks listeners through balancing rules and relationship, digging deeper into what’s driving teen behavior and how to open the door to meaningful connection.

Have a question for a future episode? Go to markgregston.com to send it in!

In a world that constantly says, “Look at me,” how can parents help teens develop humility, empathy and healthy relationships? Mark and Wayne discuss how social media, peer pressure, and today's culture can encourage self-centered attitudes and unhealthy comparisons. Mark offers advice for recognizing narcissistic tendencies, addressing hurtful online behavior and creating opportunities for teens to grow through responsibility, vulnerability and real-life experiences. He also explains why parents often have more influence when they listen more and lecture less. Listen in for practical insight on helping your teen develop confidence without self-absorption and relationships that go deeper than appearances.

In his book, Tough Guys and Drama Queens, Mark unpacks the cultural influences that are affecting today’s teens and shares strategies to address them. Find that and related resources at parentingtodaysteens.org/shop

Who helped shape the person you are today? And who are you shaping for tomorrow? In this episode, Mark reflects on the mentors who profoundly influenced his life through simple conversations, thoughtful questions and timeless words of wisdom. Rather than relying on lectures or criticism, Mark encourages parents and grandparents to invest in consistent, encouraging relationships that build trust over time. He shares why listening, telling stories and offering perspective often leave a greater legacy than having all the right answers.

Find more practical parenting tips and resources for most every situation you face with your teen at parentingtodaysteens.org

Every teen wants to feel valued and understood, but sometimes that search leads them into situations they would never have expected. In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two teens from Heartlight who open up about their journeys — one who looked for affirmation through relationships, and another who drifted into substance use to cope with social anxiety and pain. Both found themselves hiding the truth from the people who loved them most, but at the core, they just wanted to be seen and heard. Tune in as they share how real change began with learning to be honest, accepting love and building a new sense of self-worth.

Interested in learning more about Heartlight? Go to heartlightministries.org today!

Does it feel like your parental authority just isn’t having the same impact it once did? Mark and Wayne explore why today’s teens respond differently to authority than previous generations — and what parents can do instead. Mark explains why lasting influence comes through relationship, not intimidation, and offers practical insight on earning your teen’s respect while maintaining healthy boundaries and expectations. He also discusses common parenting habits that unintentionally undermine authority and create distance. Tune in for practical encouragement on leading your teen with confidence, wisdom and a relationship that invites them to listen.

Understanding what’s really driving a teen’s behavior changes everything about how to respond. Find five ways to help a rebellious teen here: bit.ly/what-you-need-to-know-about-a-rebellious-teen

Mentioned in this episode:

FICC Online PreRoll Stephen Curtis Chapman

In today's Q&A episode, Mark tackles everything from navigating boundaries around technology use and school responsibilities to dealing with grief after the loss of a parent, and addressing concerns over modesty and gender identity. He also unpacks how to navigate rules about which movies teens can watch and offers perspective on keeping relationships first, even when core beliefs are challenged. With heartfelt stories and practical advice, Mark encourages parents to lead with love, set clear standards and find God's wisdom in the midst of a rapidly changing culture.

We want to hear your parenting questions! Send them in at markgregston.com

What should you do when your teen begins questioning — or even walking away from — their faith? In this episode, Mark and Wayne offer hope and practical wisdom for parents navigating one of the most difficult seasons of raising a teen. They discuss why many young people struggle with faith, how today’s culture shapes their questions and why unconditional love often speaks louder than repeated arguments. Mark also encourages parents to trust the seeds they’ve planted while continuing to model a genuine, grace-filled relationship with Christ. Listen today!

So how do we live out our faith in front of our teens? Learn more at bit.ly/christian-life-is-more-caught-than-taught