<p>I sympathize with your son, but of course the behavior is not acceptable. Keep reflecting back what you are hearing. “I know are upset. I’m sorry that the timing is particularly difficult for you. It must be scary to feel like everything in your life is changing at once.” Most anger is caused by fear. Acknowledge that fear. And yes, if you can arrange for him to spend some time this summer with local friends or family, so much the better. Some kids keep in close touch with their high school friends all through college (my younger son), while others move on and never look back (my older son.) Your son may discover that he’s the latter not the former.</p>