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Original poster

To think that a 16 year old should be out with friends

57 replies

Woollypullover · 06/08/2024 23:06

My DS is 16 years old and has spent a lot of time since finishing GCSEs at home, in his room or hanging out with us and younger DS. He's been invited to maybe one party, met with friends once or twice and had a friend to stay for a couple of days, but otherwise he's just with us.

Is this normal? I'm sure 16 year olds are out with their friends more than this

OP posts:
Original poster
Woollypullover · 06/08/2024 23:15

Bastide · 06/08/2024 23:07

It’s his normal.

But I worry that he's lonely. He'll be leaving home in a couple of years time so he needs to be and to make friends and maintain friendships properly. I'm sure more 16 year olds are often out with their friends

OP posts:
ThursdayTomorrow · 06/08/2024 23:11

I much preferred being at home to going out socialising when I was 16. I’m in my 40s now and I still prefer it, as does my equally introverted husband. We love quiet evenings together, sitting in the garden or walking round the lanes.
Ask him how he feels. Perhaps he is an introvert and enjoys being home reading, doing hobbies or socialising online.

stayathomer · 06/08/2024 23:10

Nowadays not as normal to be out I’d say kids and teens are more introverted due to screens, or just more dangers out there, or maybe he just hasn’t met his tribe. I’ve a 14 and 16 yo and they’re similar, I think about it sometimes but they’re happy at home. If he had a friend over at least there’s that, don’t worry too much x

Turophilic · 06/08/2024 23:10

Leave him be.

Some are out all hours at 16, some barely stir from their rooms. He will find a level that works for him.

SkaneTos · 06/08/2024 23:09

Some teens like to stay home quite a bit. I know I did.

Is he happy?

Bossladywood · 06/08/2024 23:09

Is he happy enough?

I often worry about my daughter, she enjoys time in her own. I’ve figured it’s not because she has no opportunity to see friends but would rather not sometimes, so as long as she’s happy and is still out and about, say once twice a week with a friend then I leave her be x

Bastide · 06/08/2024 23:07

It’s his normal.