How to better understand my 18 year old son?

Well, I don't really know much bout your son but I'm a son to a father. I don't usually talk to him since child till now, I'm 20 now. We usually just keep quiet for the whole day even we are together for the whole day. Another thing is...I'm actually won't ask help from my father or even mother in any problems i met, even that involve money. The problem in my case is we took pride more than anything. They showed that they are more superior than us and I showed them that I can be independent. Well, I hope this help you in your relationship with your son...Best Wishes and Good Luck!

I think it's pretty normal for such things to happen. When I was 18, I find it hard to communicate with my parents. Maybe it's part of the growing up stage. What you can do is to try and plan some family outings, and maybe talk to him more. Just talk about anything. If he doesn't want to talk, just show that you care and leave him be, and tell him if he needs any help, you will always be there for him.

Dear Raven66! I can't help you, I can only respond! And relate my experience! My son is now 29...but the ages of 16-19, I really just had to let him have his wings...and be a soft place for him to land! I noticed early on, that there was a communication gap, at first I tried to span that gap, and then noticed the more I tried, the bigger the gap! Hurt as much as it did, I paid attention, but did NOt comment (it was a hard time).....if he broached a subject, I made every effort to respond congenially...and not be confrontational...or offer advice, unless asked! I really just think it was a maturing stage, because today, we live apart..he in Vancouver, me in the Gulf Islands, and he calls me every morning without fail at 6:45 a.m. and very oft times thru-out the day, just for conversation...AND guess what?.....even times for advice! Each relationship is totally different, but now is the time that you should revel in the fact, that he is such a wonderful young man, with a zest for life! (Just think of all the young 'uns that never get their butts in gear!) Take pride in yourself....for the wonderful young man you have been part of! Rainbows!