Motherhood: Mom-Teenage Son Conversations That Matter(17)

Staying Close To Him When He Pulls Away

Usually, teenagers withdraw at certain points. It’s part of growing up. One moment they’re laughing with you, the next they’re locked in their room with barely a word. Sometimes, they don’t even understand what they’re feeling—so they shut down. And as moms, it can feel confusing, even hurtful. But that’s when they need us most, even if they don’t say it.

Your son may go quiet, answer with “fine,” or avoid your eyes altogether. It’s tempting to push—ask more questions, try to fix whatever seems off. But often, the most powerful thing we can do is simply be there. Not with pressure. Just presence.

Let your love speak through the little things—sitting quietly beside him, slipping a kind note into his bag, or cooking his favorite meal. Let these simple acts remind him that he is deeply loved, valued, and never alone.

A lot of boys don’t know how to process emotions yet. They’ve been told, directly or indirectly, to “be strong,” so they bottle things up. That’s why creating a safe, calm space matters—not a place where they have to perform or pretend, but a space where they can let their guard down and just be themselves.

Say something gentle like; “I noticed you’ve been a bit quiet. I’m here whenever you feel like talking, okay?”

Then leave it at that. No pressure. Just love.

And while you wait, pray. Ask God to meet him in that silence. To remind him that he’s not alone.

Most of all, remind him: “You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. Whatever it is—we’ll get through it together.”

You’re not just a mother—you’re a nurturer. Help your son discover and grow into the man God created him to be.

Bye!