It is also important to validate your teen, so make sure that you tell your teen that it is normal to be introverted. For example, you might say something like, “Being an introvert is totally normal. There is nothing wrong with being an introvert. ” According to scientific studies, extroverts and introverts have different brain chemistries, which means their brains are hardwired differently. This means they are naturally and biologically made to be an introvert.

You should also use positive words in your own mind when thinking about your child. For example, if someone says your child is “standoffish,” you can say “reserved” or “careful. ” If someone calls your child “timid,” you may say “quiet” or “contemplating. ”

If your teen is being bullied, help them learn how to speak to a trusted adult or to address the issue. You and your child may be able to come up with a phrase that can work, like, “Stop treating me this way” or “Do not speak to me like that. ” When your child speaks, listen to them. Ask questions and encourage them to talk to you. Make sure they know that you value their opinions and ideas. Teaching your child to be more assertive may also help.

Create an environment where they feel comfortable sharing their feelings. Don’t make them feel embarrassed or wrong for their feelings. If your teen doesn’t want to share feelings or ideas verbally with you, try getting them to express themselves in other ways. Get them to write in a journal, create art, or play music to express their feelings. You may also encourage individual sports, like boxing or martial arts, to help them release frustration.

For example, your child may be interested in writing or painting, so you may be able to find writing or painting classes in your community. If your child is interested in science or computers, consider science and computer camps.

Introverts need time away from everyone else. They enjoy being alone and in quiet environments. They like solitary activities, like reading or writing. Respect your child when they demonstrate they need their space.

This may be 15 to 30 minutes of time in their room where they can process the day’s events. Don’t get mad or think they are being antisocial if they spend time alone every day after dinner or even on weekends.

Introverts may be chatty with family members or people they have a connection to, but may not talk to strangers. They may listen more than talk when they are with others. They prefer solitary activities, like reading, writing, or drawing. They often watch activities before they join. [7] X Research source Introversion is not being shy. Shy implies there is a bit of social anxiety in the person causing them to feel uncomfortable in a social situation.

If your child has introverted friends already, make your home a safe space for them to interact without expecting them to be extroverted or going out of their comfort zone. Ask your teen’s teachers or other parents if they know any introverted students who may be similar to your child.

If your child is resistant to trying new things, talk to them about it. Tell them, “The way you feel about things is normal. However, you should try some new experiences. There’s nothing to worry about when you try something new. You may discover you like something you didn’t know you liked. If you don’t like it, then that’s okay. At least you tried. ” Reinforce the positive outcomes when your child takes a chance. For example, if your child goes to a party, say, “Even though you were hesitant, you went to the party and had a great time. You even made new friends. ” Give positive reinforcement when your child goes outside of their comfort zone and tries something. Say, “I’m proud that you tried that new activity. I know that was difficult for you. ”[10] X Research source

Realize that your child has their own unique personality. Not everyone needs to be outgoing to be happy or fulfilled. Don’t make you teen do things they are uncomfortable with or act in ways they don’t want to.

Texting is a great way to talk to your teenager. Your teen may open up more if you text, “How was your day?” than if you ask them in person. Introverts may not feel comfortable calling their friends on the phone, but they can text and e-mail to keep in touch and communicate.

Your teen may feel more comfortable arriving at a party early so they can get there before too many people are there and get used to the environment. Your teen may want to go to a new place and observe everything before joining in or entering. This helps them process. You may let your teen go to the school before the school year to check out where their classes are, the route they will have to take, and how close it is to their locker.