My Senior Is Shutting Down When We Talk

When you try to talk, your senior shuts down. They go quiet, disengage, and conversations feel shorter or strained.

CHECK FIRST
Before pushing the conversation, pause and ask:
Does this happen with certain topics?
Does it happen when emotions run high?
Have they been asked the same questions often?
Is silence helping them cope?
Shutting down can be protective.

THEN
Choose a response that preserves connection.

Option 1: Step back from the topic
Space can lower defensiveness.

Option 2: Change how the conversation starts
Connection can come before content.

Option 3: Let them know you’re available
Availability matters more than timing.

PAUSE
Conversation doesn’t always look like talking. You don’t have to force this.

NOTES / REFLECTION
If it helps, reflect on:
What topics lead to shutdown?
When does conversation feel easier?
What helps my senior stay engaged?

If you want to understand why senior year feels heavy right now, start with Senior Year, Season by Season.

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