How can we tell when a teenager has genuine problems that we cannot afford to ignore? After all, they are very often moody and troublesome.

It's important to remember that most teenage behavioural problems usually follow or are followed by a crisis of sorts in the teen's life. By learning to recognise such behaviour, the crisis may be either warded off or handled well.

Let's take a look at some of the symptoms that show teens are in trouble.

• Sudden change of behaviour - like social isolation and reclusive behaviour. This could even include rejection of school, poor marks and unruly behaviour in class. This type of behavioural change is probably caused by peer pressure and demands - and your child's inability to live up to it.

• An unexpected tendency towards aggressiveness - with no regard for family or friends - and being very hostile, demanding and irresponsible. A lot of parents would put this down to sheer selfishness - but if this change takes place too quickly - your child probably has a major problem he or she is unable to handle. Counselling and parental guidance may help. Children who come from troubled homes often go through this phase. It is their way of protesting against the traumatic home life they have had to endure silently.

• Consciously indulging in high-risk activities, being blatantly reckless, masochism, suicidal talk etc. Never ignore such behaviour - and don't put it down to wanting to attract attention. Taxing as it may be - seat your child down and talk to him or her. Try to get to the root of the problem. A feeling of inattention and ill treatment could be at the bottom of this. Your child would benefit with a lot of personal attention and tender loving care.

• Indulgence in alcohol, narcotics and nicotine - no parent can afford to turn a blind eye to this - especially in the early teenage years. Put your foot down - and continue to keep watch. Your child will thank you for it years from now.

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