ABSTRACT
Two groups with whom most adults have difficulty communicating are teenagers and the elderly. Adults who are perfectly comfortable with and adept at communicating with others often find themselves uncomfortable, anxious and even angry when relating to these two groups. Both adolescents and the aged seem to demand of us special effort and understanding if we are to reach them. Perhaps, on some level, they intentionally complicate the communication process forcing us to prove we care enough to unravel the puzzle before they become vulnerable. They stand as chronological bookends on either side of the stages of adulthood most coveted and dreaded by our society. One is not yet within the mainstream of adult society, the other is inexorably slipping beyond. Each needs affirmation, assurance that they are loved, cared for, valued. Both are sensitive to any sign of rejection, any attempt to deal with them involving less than complete honesty, any response that does not take them seriously. When treated poorly, they respond with anger, withdrawal, oppositional behavior and regression.
