Why They Stopped Talking

Your teenager did not stop talking because they do not love you. They stopped because their developmental job is to individuate — to become a separate person from you.

They may also have pulled back because of how you responded when they did open up. Every time you lectured, judged, or panicked, you taught them that sharing has a cost.

Rebuilding the bridge:

• Repair past misfires: a quick "I'm sorry I jumped in last time" reopens the door.
• Accept short answers gracefully: "Fine" is not an insult. It is a teenager being a teenager.
• Be available without being intrusive: Presence without pressure.