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Step 1
Be aware of more in-depth problems. Teenagers naturally try to separate themselves from their parents and establish independence, so it should be a red flag when a teenager becomes clingy to a parent. There is probably a root to the problem, whether it is due to an illness in the family, divorce, a traumatic event or problems in the child's social life.
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Step 2
Talk to the child. Teenagers may be surprisingly receptive to honest and open discussion of feelings. Begin by sharing personal feelings, especially if family problems or a traumatic event is involved.
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Step 3
Encourage outside activities. Get the child involved in after school programs or hobbies that force socialization. If problems are at school, try things outside of the school such as youth groups or community programs.
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Step 4
Seek outside help. The problems may not be serious enough to seek out a psychiatrist or therapist, but encourage the child to speak to a school counselor, trusted teacher or youth group leader. The teenager may be eager to open up about problems, but hesitant to share concerns with a parent.
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Step 5
Be honest. Explain to the teenager why it is important for a parent and a child to have separate lives. Tell him how much shared time is enjoyed, but also why it is important to be separate. Be honest, but be firm. Do not add to the feelings of insecurity that the child is probably already feeling.
