Every day the teenager in your life faces many decisions. Some are as simple as deciding what to wear and how to blend in with their peers at school. Other decisions may ultimately be choices between life and death.

Most teens face immense pressure to fit in and to be accepted by the crowd. As a parent standing in the sidelines it is painful and hard to watch. The good news is, whether you have a great relationship with them or not, you can help.

As you read the following tips, keep in mind that many of these suggestions aren't based on having a deep discussion with the teen in your life. At the same time, if you want to be able to talk with them more, try to find common ground. Don't just jump into a discussion about her friends. Maybe you both love music, or fashion, or getting outdoors -- start there. Acting first, instead of talking, may lend some relief . For example, suggest going to his favorite restaurant, or joining him as he does something he loves. . Just remember, it is very, very, common for parents to have hot and cold relationships with their kids during their teens years - male or female. Regardless of the temperature of the relationship, the following six tips can be utilized.

1) How do they handle peer pressure now?

Of course we know that Divine Mind is always guiding and guarding our children, but answering these questions may help to notice the areas our children may need more support. Start by asking yourself these important questions: Can she think for herself? Can he slow himself down enough to think clearly? Can she disagree with her friends and be okay with it? Can he listen to his gut? Answering these questions will help you sort out where you can be of most help.

2) Remember... your teen is always watching you.

Your teenager is probably never going to tell you they're watching, but they are. They watch your conversations, reactions, and relationships. Maybe you had a difficult decision to make at work and were the only one who disagreed with the team, but you said so. Let your son or daughter know and talk about what you did and how it was resolved. Talk to them about the spiritual ideas you used to handle the situation or how you prayed about it. Your example will teach them more than you can ever tell them.

3) Teach your teenager how to think for themself.

Let them have responsibility and be involved in the decision making. It also means they learn to listen to, and follow their own instincts and prayers. Start with simple things like deciding which movie to go to or how to spend her weekends. When they have a tough decision, like choosing between two favorite activities, help them think it through it and pray about it without giving the answer. You might even share how you've prayed about similar situations.

4) Watch closely for changes in behavior.

Pay close attention to what is going on in their life and who they are hanging out with. If you see any major changes in their behavior - from sleeping, dressing, eating, or how much time they spend at home - these could be signs that they are dealing with a lot of peer pressure or other issues, and need help. Don't be afraid to talk to other parents or their teachers if you aren't sure what's going on or you need more ideas about how to handle the situation. So often parents feel they are the only ones dealing with a situation and that is so untrue!

5) Be a good listener.

Perhaps the most important tip and sometimes the hardest thing to do. The last thing your teenager wants you to do is tell them how to solve their problems. Listen to your teen and let them know you're there for them.. Try asking open- ended questions that require them to think and answer more than your typical "yes" or "no". For example: What would be the pros or cons or making that choice? Who would it impact the most? What are your prayers telling you to do? If you show your teen that you can listen more than talk, they'll be sure to come back next time they need to talk or be listened to. Both are good signs.

6) Lay Down the Law.

Safety always comes first. It's not always easy to lay down the law and follow through on consequences. If the peers in your teenagers life are negatively impacting them and you are fearful for them, don't be afraid to set the rules and stick to them.

Your teen needs you. The peer pressure teens face daily weigh heavily on their shoulders and can be consuming. Having you on their side will make all the difference.