What Your Teen’s Eye Roll Really Means — And How It Could Improve Your Parenting

If you're a single parent, chances are you've had your fair share of eye rolls, shrugged shoulders, or slammed doors. Maybe your teen seems totally unmotivated, constantly talks back, or avoids conversations altogether.

It’s easy to label it “attitude” or disrespect.

But what if those frustrating behaviors were actually messages you haven’t learned how to translate yet?

In this week’s episode of The Single Parenting Reset Show, parenting coach Tess Connolly sits down with teen development expert Dr. Cam Caswell — known as “The Teen Translator” — to explore what’s really going on beneath the surface of teen behavior.

The Real Reason Teens "Act Out"

Dr. Cam shares that most of the conflict between parents and teens comes from miscommunication. Teens often lack the words — or safety — to express what they’re feeling, so their body language does the talking.

The result? Parents misinterpret it as defiance or disrespect, and the conflict escalates.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why eye rolls and sarcasm are actually invitations to connect
  
• How to decode common teen behaviors (like laziness or silence)
  
• What your reactions might be unintentionally reinforcing
  
• Proven ways to rebuild trust and reduce tension — even during screen time battles
  
  

Why This Matters for Single Parents

As a solo parent, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly managing conflict or walking on eggshells. But this episode will help you reframe your approach, respond instead of react, and foster the kind of connection that leads to long-term change.

Ready to reset the way you connect with your teen?
🎧 Listen to the full episode here.