The paper considers the nature of support and counseling needed by parents of emotionally disturbed/behavior disordered adolescents. Seven potential areas of conflict for the adolescent are identified and explained with the intention of providing parents with greater understanding of their children's lives. Crises are explained to include conflict areas of status, identity, independence, relationships, sex, values, and decision-making. Suggestions are given for reacting to each crisis area, and the overwhelming importance of communication between parent and child is stressed. Parent training materials are identified, and professionals are urged to treat parents and their children with respect. (CL)