Teenage Breakups

Teenage breakups are painful.  Most, but not all, romantic relationships in the teenage years end.  These teenage breakups happen mostly because everyone is changing so much and relationships are about a good fit.

When one partner changes more or differently than the other partner, the relationship may no longer work and will need to end. That can be a painful, but ultimately healthy outcome.

Plus, the lack of experience and interpersonal skills can be hard on a relationship.

The critical issue in teenage breakups is to avoid diminishing your partner or being diminished. In ending a relationship, it is important to be direct, do it in person, be firm – and get support in doing it well, particularly if you are ending an abusive relationship.

There are a bunch of things you can do if you are “dumped.” One is to accept the ending and be realistic about whether it’s just a lack of fit or there were things you could have done differently. You can also connect with family and friends for support, engage in activities you enjoy and reflect on your strengths and qualities.

There is no way to avoid the pain of a breakup.  It happens to almost everyone and it hurts, but it doesn’t need to do damage – and it can prepare you for more successful relationships if you learn from it.

Romantic relationships are just tough because it’s about fit when everyone is changing.  You’re changing and what you want or need in a relationships changes.  It’s the same for potential partners.