How do I ask my 15yo son if he’s mad at me post-divorce?

CaptainKix1

Hey folks! My ex‑wife and I split custody 7 days each—so he spends a week with her, then a week with me. He’s 15, super active, plays high‑school basketball and hangs out with,his friends whenever he can. Lately, he sounds kind of angry when we talk on the phone. I’m not sure if that’s just the usual teenage mood or if he’s got some resentment about me and his mom breaking up. Should I ask him directly if he’s holding any anger toward me, or just keep being there, letting him know he can always talk to me whenever he wants without pressing the issue? Thanks for any advice!

Zeropine

First and foremost, yeah, you should always be there for him, no matter what. It’s rough when they’re teens hormones all over the place, and then add a parent’s divorce and you’ve got a per fect storm of what you’re dealing with. I get it; I lived it when I was 16. No matter how upset he gets, know when to give him space and when you need to be there, but don’t ever cut off communication. Your gut will tell you what’s right. You’ve got this.

VelcroViking

He's obviously going through puberty, so you might want to give him some space, but be there for him when he needs it and show your support. If he's holding anger toward you, it’s probably just his frustration with the world and your divorce. He doesn’t really know how to deal with it, so I always suggest being straight‑up and asking him what’s making him so angry. Just tell him you love him, give him a hug when you see him he’ll really appreciate it and know he loves you too.

EchoStarVee

Yeah, just ask him. Keep being there for him, keep doing what you’re doing, man. Seriously, ask him he’s old enough to talk about the situation.