What Not to Say to Your ADHD Teen (And What to Say Instead)

If you’ve ever wondered “Why did that simple comment blow up?” — this episode is for you.

Parents of ADHD teens often unintentionally make symptoms worse with the words they use. In this episode, I share three common language mistakes that quietly escalate anxiety, shutdowns, meltdowns, and fibbing — and I give you exact scripts to use instead.

These small shifts can dramatically reduce power struggles, improve honesty, and strengthen your connection with your teen.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why replacing “but” with “and” changes everything for the ADHD nervous system

• How “why” questions trigger threat responses and emotional shutdown

• What to ask instead of “why” so your teen stays regulated and engaged

• Why ADHD teens fib — and why it’s about anxiety, not dishonesty

• How yes/no questions unintentionally invite lying

• Simple scripts that promote honesty, cooperation, and accountability

• How inclusive, low-demand language builds trust instead of tension

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