Another Deadass Glossary: A Fun Guide for Parents to Understand Their Trans* or Nonbinary Gen Z Teen

Group of queer teens celebrating Pride.

Introduction

Feeling lost with Gen Z slang? OK boomer, let’s dive in!

Greetings, fellow parent of a teenager. Do you ever find yourself utterly baffled when your teen starts speaking in what appears to be an alien language? You’re in good company. Welcome to the wild and wacky world of Gen Z slang, where terms like “slay,” “bet,” and “vibing” are merely the tip of the linguistic iceberg. But worry not, for I am here to guide us both through the ever-changing maze of lingo used by your transgender, nonbinary, and ally cisgender teen, allowing you to partake in the excitement and better comprehend their universe. This might not turn us into parenting prodigies, but at least we’ll be in the know. Alright, let’s do this.

Bridging the Communication Gap: Why Understanding Your Teen’s Language Matters

You might wonder, “Is it truly essential to learn all these new terms? Aren’t they just passing trends?” The fact is, language plays a pivotal role in our lives, and comprehending your teen’s language is crucial for cultivating a strong, supportive relationship. By taking the time to understand the slang they use, you’re not just showing interest in their world, but also strengthening lines of communication. This opens the door to more meaningful conversations and a deeper connection with your teen.

Indeed, it can be both amusing and slightly cringe-worthy to witness parents attempting to decode the enigmatic language of Millennials and Gen Zs.

It’s no surprise that they might get it wrong, as new words seem to pop up every time you blink. Thankfully, our list aims to help you catch up with the latest jargon used by the younger generation.

Give yourself a pat on the back if you’re familiar with some of the phrases and words mentioned. If you think there are any missing, chances are they’ve already fallen out of favour (sorry).

Of course, I don’t claim to have all the answers here either (who does, really?), so let’s all explore and appreciate this list as a united front.

The ABCs of Gen Z Slang

Gen Z terms related to gender identity and expression

Before jumping into the slang lingo, let’s cover the basics of transgender terminology that your teen may be introducing to you:

  • Agender: A person who doesn’t identify with any gender.
  • Cisgender: A person whose gender identity matches the sex assigned at birth.
  • Gender binary: The belief that there can only be two genders: male and female, is often associated with the idea that gender is determined at birth.
  • Genderfluid: A person whose gender identity fluctuates over time and may not be confined to a single gender.
  • Genderqueer: An umbrella term for people whose gender identity doesn’t fit within the traditional binary of male or female.
  • Gender spectrum: The concept that gender falls on a sliding scale, with everyone resting at different points of the spectrum at various points in life.
  • Nonbinary: An individual who doesn’t identify as exclusively male or female; their gender identity might fall outside the traditional gender binary or might be a mix of both.
  • Pronouns: Words used to refer to someone in place of their name, e.g., he, she, and they; neopronouns like ze/hir and xe/xem are also gaining popularity.
  • Questioning: A term used when someone is exploring their gender identity and/or sexual orientation.
  • Transgender: A person whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.

You’ve probably noticed that the conversation around gender is changing. A drastic reimagining of gender identity is underway, one that will reshape our future.

More than 12% of millennials identify as transgender or gender non-conforming, and a majority believe that gender is a spectrum rather than a man/woman binary. Compared to millennials, Gen Z’s views on gender are even more progressive. In the U.S., 56% know someone who uses a gender-neutral pronoun, and 59% believe forms should include options other than “man” and “woman.” Globally, 25% of Gen Zers expect to change their gender identity at least once during their lifetime.

For a comprehensive list of gender-inclusive terms, you can visit my Transgender Glossary: A Developing Language for Gender Diversity post.

General Gen Z slang

  • @ me next time: Originated on Twitter, this term is used to tell someone to stop being shady and talk to you directly if there’s an issue, instead of behind your back. It is often used jokingly.
  • A whole meal: If someone is looking good, they’re “a whole meal”. This phrase has somewhat of a sexual connotation.
  • Agender: A person who doesn’t identify with any gender.
  • Basic: A term used to describe someone or something unoriginal or lacking creativity.
  • Bet: A way to say “yes,” “OK,” or “it’s on.”
  • Big yikes: A phrase used to describe something embarrassing or cringe-worthy.
  • Bop/Banger: If a song is really good or enjoyable, it’s a “bop” or a “banger”.
  • Boujee: Someone who enjoys the lavish and extravagant things in life.
  • Bussin’: A term used to describe something that tastes delicious, usually referring to food or a meal. Also used to describe anything that is very enjoyable or great.
  • Chill vibes: A phrase used to describe a relaxed, comfortable, and enjoyable atmosphere or environment.
  • Cancelled: If someone does something the internet deems “problematic”, they are “cancelled”.
  • Cap: A term that means a lie; “no cap” is used to emphasize honesty.
  • Chef’s kiss: A phrase used to describe something that is perfect, high-quality, or well-executed, as if it were a delicious meal prepared by a skilled chef.
  • Chonky: A term used to describe something or someone that is larger or heavier than average, often in a cute or endearing way.
  • Cisgender: A person whose gender identity matches the sex assigned at birth.
  • Clapback: A response to being “called out”, confronted, or insulted. Getting back at someone. Clapbacks are supposed to be smart and witty responses that “burn” your opponent.
  • Clout: In the social media context, “clout” means having great social influence or following, being popular or being favoured in certain situations because of your social media or general social presence.
  • Creps: Sneakers.
  • Dank: A term commonly used in meme culture to describe something that’s funny, enjoyable, or “hard-hitting”.
  • Deadass: For real/definitely/seriously/I agree.
  • Doggo/Pupper: A Millennial/Gen Z way of saying “dog” and “puppy”.
  • Doing the most: Being a bit too much, looking for attention; someone who is trying a bit too hard to impress others.
  • Drip: An outfit; usually refers to a really good one. Drip also refers to being “dripped” with inexpensive jewelry and diamonds.
  • Dzaddy: Refers to an attractive man.
  • E-boy/E-girl: A term referring to a specific subculture often found on social media platforms like TikTok; characterized by a unique style that combines elements of punk, goth, and grunge fashion.
  • Extra: Someone who is out there, extravagant and loves taking things to a whole new level of flamboyance.
  • F*boi**: A womanizer or player; someone who uses women for sexual pleasure, slut-shames them, and has minimal respect for them, if any.
  • Facts: A term used to express agreement or to emphasize that something is true.
  • Finesse: When someone is crafty and witty and can impressively manipulate situations to work out in their favour. They are too slick and smooth with it.
  • Finna: I feel like doing… I am going to do.
  • Fire: Something that is cool or hot (ironically).
  • Fit: ‘Fit, as in outfit.
  • Fit check: A request for someone to show off their outfit, typically used on social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok; often includes a video or photo of the person wearing the outfit, with the goal of sharing fashion inspiration or receiving feedback from others.
  • Flex: Show off your possessions; may not necessarily be overt though.
  • FOMO: An acronym for “Fear Of Missing Out,” referring to the feeling of anxiety or concern that one is missing out on a positive or enjoyable experience that others are having.
  • G.O.A.T.: Greatest Of All Time.
  • IYKYK (If You Know, You Know): An acronym used to imply that something is an inside joke, shared experience, or common knowledge among a specific group or community.
  • Mood: A phrase used to express agreement, empathy, or shared feelings about a specific situation or emotion; can also be used as a noun to describe the overall atmosphere or vibe of a situation.
  • Noob: A term used to describe someone who is inexperienced or new to a particular activity, game, or field; often used in online gaming communities.
  • OK, boomer: A dismissive response to someone from an older generation, typically used to call out their perceived outdated or close-minded opinions or ideas.
  • On fleek: When something looks perfect or is on point, it’s “on fleek.”
  • Periodt: A more assertive way to say “period,” used to emphasize a point or statement; often used at the end of a sentence.
  • Pull up: To arrive or show up somewhere, often unexpectedly or uninvited.
  • Put on blast: To publicly expose or call someone out for something they did wrong or to embarrass them.
  • RIP (Rest In Peace): A term used to express sympathy for someone’s loss or to acknowledge that something has ended; often used humorously to exaggerate a minor inconvenience or setback.
  • Savage: Someone who is brutally honest, unapologetic, or fearless in their actions or opinions.
  • Secure the bag: To obtain financial success or achieve a goal, often used in the context of work or hustling.
  • Shook: Feeling surprised, shocked, or scared by something unexpected.
  • Sis: A friendly term used to address another person, not necessarily a female; can also be used to show sympathy or camaraderie.
  • Skrrt: A slang term used to describe a quick exit or abrupt change in conversation or plans; often used playfully or humorously.
  • Slide into the DMs: To privately message someone on social media, typically with romantic or flirtatious intent.
  • Snack: A term used to describe someone who looks attractive or “tasty”; less intense than “a whole meal.”
  • Snatched: A term used to describe something or someone that looks exceptionally good, often in reference to fashion, makeup, or body shape.
  • Spill the tea: To share gossip, secrets, or juicy information.
  • Squad: A group of friends or a close-knit social circle.
  • Swerve: To avoid someone or something, often in a dismissive or rude manner.
  • TBH: An acronym for “to be honest,” used to share one’s true feelings or opinions.
  • Thicc: A term used to describe someone with a full, curvy, or voluptuous body shape, often used in a complimentary or body-positive manner.
  • Thirsty: Desperate for attention or approval, particularly in a romantic or sexual context.
  • Throw shade: To subtly or indirectly insult or criticize someone.
  • TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read): A phrase used to summarize a lengthy piece of text or to request a shorter version of a long story or explanation.
  • Triggered: A term used to describe the feeling of being emotionally or mentally upset by something; often used in a humorous context to exaggerate a minor annoyance or frustration.
  • Turnt: Feeling excited, hyped up, or in a party mood.
  • VSCO girl: A term referring to a specific aesthetic or subculture often found on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok; characterized by a love for environmentally-friendly products, casual fashion, and an overall “effortless” appearance.
  • Wig: An exclamation used to express shock, disbelief, or amazement; often used when something impressive or surprising happens.
  • Woke: Being aware of social and political issues and injustices, particularly related to racism and inequality.
  • Yeet: An exclamation used to express excitement, enthusiasm, or success; can also be used as a verb to describe throwing something with force.
  • Zaddy: A more attractive or stylish version of “daddy”; used to describe a man who is both fashionable and confident.
  • Zoomer: A term for members of Generation Z, born between the mid-to-late 1990s and early 2010s; often used to describe younger people who are tech-savvy and progressive.

Remember that Gen Z often omits capitalization and punctuation when communicating via text or messaging, so don’t be thrown off by their casual writing. Here are some more rules and trends you might notice in Gen Z communication styles:

  • Abbreviations: Gen Z often uses abbreviations or shortened forms of words and phrases to save time and make their messages more concise. Examples include “idk” (I don’t know), “brb” (be right back), and “tysm” (thank you so much).
    • ALRR: Alright
    • AMA: Ask Me Anything
    • ASL: Age / Sex / Location
    • BDE: Big D**k Energy – A term used to describe someone with an aura of confidence and charisma.
    • BTS: Behind The Scenes
    • BTW: By The Way
    • DM: Direct Message – A private message sent between two users. Mostly used on Twitter and Instagram.
    • DYK: Did You Know
    • F2F: Face 2 Face
    • FBF: Flashback Friday
    • FBO: Facebook Official
    • FF: Follow Friday
    • Fleet: Temporary Twitter posts that disappear after 24 hours. Like Instagram Stories, Facebook stories, or the original disappearing content, Snapchat.
    • FOMO: Fear of Missing Out
    • FTW: For the Win
    • FYI: For Your Information
    • FYP: For You Page – The FYP is the main timeline you see when you log into TikTok. Instead of people you follow, the ‘for you page’ shows users popular, viral and random videos that they might like based on their personal algorithm.
    • GTG: Good to Go
    • GTR: Got to Run
    • HBD: Happy Birthday
    • HMB: Hit Me Back
    • HMU: Hit Me Up
    • HTH: Here to Help
    • ICYMI: In Case You Missed It
    • IDC: I Don’t Care
    • IDK: I Don’t Know
    • IKR: I Know, Right?
    • ILY: I Love You
    • IM: Instant Message
    • IMO: In My Opinion
    • IRL: In Real Life
    • JK: Just Kidding
    • LMAO: Laughing My A** Off
    • LMK: Let Me Know
    • LMS: Like My Status
    • LOL: Laugh Out Loud
    • MCM: Man-Crush Monday
    • MIA: Missing In Action
    • MTF: More To Follow
    • NBD: No Big Deal
    • NM: Not Much
    • NSFW: Not Safe for Work
    • NVM: Nevermind
    • OBV: Obviously
    • OMW: On My Way
    • OOMF: One Of My Friends/Followers – Used to refer to someone you follow or are friends with on social media without mentioning them by name.
    • OOTD: Outfit Of The Day
    • OP: Original Poster
    • POV: Point of View
    • PP: Profile Picture
    • QOTD: Quote Of The Day
    • ROFL: Rolling On The Floor Laughing
    • SELFIE: A Picture of Yourself
    • SMH: Shaking My Head
    • SNAP: Snapchat – A popular social media platform that features short-lived content and messaging.
    • SOV: Share Of Voice
    • Streaks: A term used on Snapchat to describe a series of consecutive days two users have snapped each other.
    • TBH: To Be Honest
    • TBT: Throwback Thursday
    • TIL: Today I Learned
    • TL;DR: Too Long; Didn’t Read
    • TMI: Too Much Information
    • TTYL: Talk To You Later
    • TY: Thank You
    • VSCO: A photo-editing app and social media platform popular among Gen Z, known for its filters and aesthetic.
    • WBW: Way Back Wednesday
    • WCW: Woman-Crush Wednesday
    • WFH: Work From Home
    • YOLO: You Only Live Once
    • YW: You’re Welcome
  • Emojis: Emojis are a staple of Gen Z communication, often used to convey emotions, expressions, or reactions in a more visual and concise manner than words alone. They can also be used to add emphasis or humour to a message.
    • ? – Skull Emoji
    • ? – Clown Face Emoji
    • ? – Loudly Crying Face Emoji
    • ? – Grinning Face with Sweat Emoji
    • ? – Thumbs-Up Emoji
    • ? – Folded Hands Emoji
    • ? – Fire Emoji
    • ? – Eyes Emoji
    • ? – Upside-Down Face Emoji
    • ⏳ – Hourglass Emoji
    • ? – Slightly Smiling Face Emoji
    • ?️??️ – Shocked Emoji Combination
    • ? – Kissing Face Emoji
    • ❤️ – Heart Emoji
    • ? – Zany Face Emoji
  • Memes: Memes are a popular form of communication among Gen Z, used to express ideas, opinions, or shared experiences through images, GIFs, or short videos. They are often used to create a sense of community, humour, or relatability.
    • Arthur Fist: An image of the cartoon character Arthur clenching his fist, used to express frustration or annoyance.
    • Distracted Boyfriend: A stock photo of a man looking at another woman while his girlfriend looks on disapprovingly, used to illustrate someone being tempted by something new or different.
    • Doge: A Shiba Inu dog accompanied by broken English phrases in colorful Comic Sans font, used to convey various emotions or reactions.
    • Expanding Brain: A series of images showing a person’s brain increasing in size and glowing, used to represent a progression of thoughts or ideas, often with ironic or absurd twists.
    • Mocking SpongeBob: An image of SpongeBob SquarePants making a mocking face, used to ridicule someone’s statement or opinion.
    • Pepe the Frog: A cartoon frog with various expressions, often used to convey emotions or reactions in online conversations.
    • Rickrolling: The act of tricking someone into clicking a link that leads to the music video for Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up,” as a humorous prank.
    • This is Fine: A comic strip of a dog sitting in a room on fire, used to represent situations where someone is trying to remain calm despite chaos or stress.
    • Two Buttons: An image of a robot struggling to press one of two buttons, used to represent difficult decisions or conflicting feelings.
    • Wojak/Feels Guy: A simple drawing of a sad-looking man, used to express feelings of sadness, disappointment, or empathy.
  • Intentional misspellings: Gen Z sometimes intentionally misspells words or phrases for humorous effect, to add emphasis, or to convey a more casual tone. Examples include:
    • Smol: small
    • Boi: boy
    • Birb: bird
    • Chonk: a large or overweight animal, usually a cat
    • Doggo: dog
    • Fren: friend
    • Heckin: very or extremely (often used with dogs)
    • Hooman: human
    • Pupper: puppy or dog
    • Snacc: snack or an attractive person
    • Sksksk: an expression of laughter or amusement
    • Stronk: strong
    • Vv: very (as in “vv good”)
    • Yeet: to throw or to express excitement
  • Slang: As seen in the previous bullet lists, Gen Z has developed its own unique slang, which can include new words, phrases, or alternative meanings for existing terms. This slang can evolve quickly, with new terms emerging and fading in popularity over time.
    • Bet: An affirmation or agreement, similar to saying “okay” or “you bet.”
    • Cap/No Cap: “Cap” means lying or exaggerating, while “no cap” means telling the truth or being genuine.
    • Clout: Social influence or popularity, often gained through online platforms.
    • Extra: Over the top, excessive, or trying too hard.
    • FOMO: “Fear Of Missing Out,” the feeling of anxiety or regret over potentially missing out on an enjoyable experience or event.
    • GOAT: “Greatest Of All Time,” a term used to describe someone or something that is considered the best in its category.
    • Hypebeast: Someone who is obsessed with the latest trends, especially in fashion and streetwear.
    • Lit: Exciting, fun, or amazing, often used to describe parties or events.
    • Savage: Bold, fearless, or ruthless, sometimes used as a compliment for someone who has done something impressive or unapologetic.
    • Vibe: A feeling or atmosphere, often used to describe the mood of a person or a situation.
    • Woke: Socially and politically aware, particularly in regard to issues of justice and equality.
    • Yeet: An exclamation of excitement or approval, can also be used as a verb meaning to throw or launch something with force.
  • Irony and sarcasm: Gen Z communication often involves the use of irony and sarcasm, sometimes to the point where it can be difficult to discern whether a statement is genuine or intended as a joke. This can lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations, particularly for those who are less familiar with the subtleties of Gen Z humour.
    • Deadpan delivery: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be here” (saying something positive in a flat or unenthusiastic tone)
    • Juxtaposition: “I love waking up early on weekends” (contrasting an unpopular opinion or behavior with a common expectation)
    • Literal exaggeration: “I can’t even right now” (meaning they’re overwhelmed or amused)
    • Mocking imitation: “Oh, look at me, I’m so smart” (imitating someone in a sarcastic manner)
    • Pretending ignorance: “What’s a smartphone?” (feigning lack of knowledge about a well-known subject)
    • Reverse psychology: “You should definitely watch that show, it’s only the worst thing ever” (suggesting that the show is actually good)
    • Satirical imitation: “Welcome to adulthood, where everything is made up and the points don’t matter” (parodying a game show to comment on the absurdity of adult life)
    • Sarcastic agreement: “Oh sure, like I have all the time in the world” (implying they are actually busy)
    • Self-deprecation: “I’m a professional procrastinator” (joking about one’s own weaknesses)
    • Understatement: “It’s just a tiny spider” (referring to a large or intimidating spider)
  • Code-switching: Gen Z individuals may switch between different communication styles depending on their audience, context, or platform. For example, they might use more formal language and proper grammar in an academic setting, while adopting a more casual tone and incorporating slang in their personal messages or social media posts.
    • Academic setting: Using formal language and proper grammar in essays, research papers, or presentations.
    • Casual conversation: Adopting a relaxed tone and incorporating slang when talking with friends or family.
    • Job interview: Speaking professionally and adhering to proper etiquette during an interview with a potential employer.
    • Online forums: Adjusting language and tone to match the specific community or platform, such as using technical jargon in a specialized forum or adopting a more casual tone on social media.
    • Professional communication: Utilizing appropriate language and structure when sending emails or engaging in work-related conversations.
    • Public speaking: Adjusting language, tone, and presentation style to match the audience and purpose of a speech or presentation.
    • Text messaging: Employing informal language, abbreviations, emojis, and slang in personal messages.
    • Video game chats: Using gaming-specific terminology and slang while communicating with other players in online games.

By understanding these rules and trends, you’ll be better equipped to communicate effectively with Gen Z individuals and to appreciate the nuances of their unique communication styles.

Embracing Inclusive Language and Slang

The power of using the right terms and slang

Using the right language and slang when talking to your teens is crucial. Understanding their words not only helps bridge communication gaps but also creates a supportive environment where they feel understood and accepted. This goes beyond just using popular slang terms; it also involves recognizing and incorporating inclusive language that respects the diverse experiences of Gen Z individuals.

Creating a safe space for open communication

When you use inclusive language and slang, you signal to your teens that you’re open to understanding their perspective and that you’re willing to learn about the world they inhabit. This creates a safe space for them to express their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment or misunderstanding, which can be vital for fostering healthy relationships and open communication.

Strengthening connections and trust

By making an effort to understand and use the language and slang of your teens, you demonstrate that you’re invested in their lives and experiences. This can help to build stronger connections and trust between you and your teens, making it easier for them to turn to you for advice, support, or simply a listening ear.

Promoting self-expression and identity

Language is a powerful tool for self-expression, and by embracing the slang and terminology used by Gen Z, you’re validating their unique ways of expressing themselves. This can help your teens feel more comfortable in their own skin and develop a stronger sense of identity, which is crucial for their overall well-being and personal development.

The impact of language on mental health and wellbeing

Inclusive language is essential for promoting mental health and well-being. By using the correct terms and slang, you show your teen that you respect their identity and experiences, which can foster trust and healthy communication. This, in turn, can contribute to their emotional well-being by making them feel seen, heard, and valued. It can also help prevent feelings of isolation or alienation, which can arise when their language and experiences aren’t acknowledged or understood.

Ultimately, embracing inclusive language and slang can have a significant positive impact on your relationship with your teens and their overall mental health and well-being. By making an effort to learn and use the terms that are meaningful to them, you’ll be fostering an environment of understanding, trust, and support.

Examples of inclusive language and slang in everyday conversation

Here are some examples of inclusive language and slang that you can incorporate into your conversations with your teen:

  • Affirming pronouns: Make sure to use the correct pronouns when referring to your teen and others. This simple act shows respect and understanding for their gender identity. If you’re unsure, you can always ask for their preferred pronouns.
  • Using inclusive terms: Instead of saying “boys and girls,” try using more inclusive terms like “everyone” or “folks” to acknowledge the diversity of gender identities. Similarly, opt for “partner” or “significant other” instead of “boyfriend” or “girlfriend” when discussing relationships.
  • Embracing slang: Incorporate some of the slang terms your teen uses into your conversations. This can help you relate to them and create a more open and relaxed atmosphere for discussion. Some examples include “lit” (awesome or exciting), “FOMO” (fear of missing out), and “on fleek” (perfect or well-done).
  • Supporting mental health: Use language that promotes understanding and empathy when discussing mental health issues. Avoid stigmatizing terms and instead use phrases like “living with anxiety” or “experiencing depression” to describe these conditions.
  • Recognizing cultural differences: Be mindful of the diverse backgrounds and experiences of your teen and their peers. Use language that is respectful and inclusive when discussing different cultures, ethnicities, and traditions.

Remember, it’s essential to stay informed about the evolving language and slang of Gen Z. By doing so, you can better support your teen and foster a more inclusive and understanding environment at home. Keep the lines of communication open and don’t hesitate to ask your teen for guidance when it comes to using the right language and terms. They’ll appreciate your effort and willingness to learn.

Tips for Navigating the Gen Z Language Landscape

Staying open-minded and curious

Be open to learning new terms and slang used by Gen Z. Keeping an open mind will help you better understand your teen and create a more inclusive environment at home.

Asking questions without judgment

If you’re unsure about a term or slang, don’t hesitate to ask your teen for clarification. Approach the conversation with curiosity and without judgment, showing that you genuinely want to understand and support them.

Embracing new terms and evolving language

Language is constantly evolving, and it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest terms and slang. Embrace new words and phrases as they emerge, and incorporate them into your conversations with your teen.

Connecting with other parents of transgender, nonbinary, and Gen Z kids

Reach out to other parents who share similar experiences. Connecting with others can provide valuable insights, support, and a sense of community as you navigate the Gen Z language landscape.

Resources for learning more about gender identity, expression, and slang

To better understand your teen and the language they use, explore resources on gender identity, expression, and slang. Some helpful resources include:

  • Books, articles, and blogs on gender identity and expression
  • Educational websites and online forums dedicated to discussing transgender and nonbinary issues
  • Social media platforms where Gen Z shares their experiences and language

By staying informed and engaged, you’ll be better equipped to support your teen and create a more inclusive and understanding environment at home.

Conclusion

Emphasizing the importance of understanding and supporting your teen

Work towards creating a supportive and inclusive environment. By making an effort to learn the slang and terms they use, you’re showing your teen that you care about their well-being and respect their identity.

Acknowledging that it’s okay not to know everything

You won’t always know or understand every aspect of your teen’s world. That’s okay. The key is to maintain open communication, ask questions, and be willing to learn from your teen.

Encouraging parents to learn and grow with their teens

Be open to learning and growing alongside your teen. Embrace the challenges and joys that come with understanding the ever-changing landscape of Gen Z language. By doing so, you’ll strengthen your relationship with your teen and create a supportive environment where they can thrive.

Disclaimer: This blog shares general information only, not professional advice or recommendations. Consult healthcare providers for personal guidance. Decisions based on content are the reader's responsibility. Thank you.

Clayre runs a group practice of three queer and trans therapists, including youth therapist Audrey Wolfe, RCC, LGBT therapist Camber Giberson, RCC, CCC, and gender-affirming therapist Clayre Sessoms, RP, RCT, RCC, CCC, ATR-P. Work with us: book a session.

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