ABSTRACT
This chapter talks about an activity, which is designed to promote more open communication between adolescents and their parents. Silent Scream is more appropriate for female teens; however, it could be adapted for males when appropriate. This intervention goes beyond a mere "communication" exercise, as teens share their inner thoughts and feelings, and parents are encouraged to listen and empathize with their children. Healthy autonomy develops gradually as the child moves from pre- to late adolescence, and is closely linked to identity development. During these years teens want more space as they seek to discover who they are. Intimate communication between teens and parents may not occur for various reasons. Some adolescents may keep their feelings to themselves in an attempt to strengthen their personal boundaries. Some teens are willing to open up to their parents with only minimal support from the therapist. Others may be too depressed, hopeless, or overwhelmed to be able to voice their deeper feelings.
