Adolescence is a chaotic time at best. Not only are hormonal fluctuations causing the body to change dramatically pretty much overnight, but your place in society is kind of in limbo as well. Even though it is a phase in life that every living thing must go through, it's not a smooth transition. Some graduate into adulthood relatively unscathed, but for some it's the start of a long, tough road that spirals down to a life-long path of troubles.

It's important to know what to expect so you, as a parent, can detect anything that might be a sign of a troubled teen. Adolescence is when kids start to pull away from their parents emotionally so they can prepare to separate from the family unit and form their identity as an individual. This process though painful for all involved, is absolutely necessary for your child to grow into a happy, stable adult.

A troubled teen tends to gravitate away from the family unit and cling to their groups of friends. You will probably have concerns about these beings your troubled teen is trying to spend her ever waking hour with. Keep in mind that all these other kids are perhaps in the middle of the same turmoil yours is going through.

Be patient, and try not to judge her friends by their appearance because under all those chains, piercings and bright blue Mohawks might be some completely decent kids. What you need to pay close attention to is how these kids and your troubled teen behave. Look for more subtle signs of substance abuse like erratic behavior, bloodshot eyes, missing money or other valuables when they leave, paranoia or excessive nervousness. Also be on the lookout for any wounds that might be self-inflicted by your troubled teen. This is when you have to jump in and take action with your troubled teen.