Middle school is hard. Socially.  Academically.  Emotionally.  Financially. Physically. Basically all of the ways. The body is changing, the mind is changing, the expectations and responsibilities are changing. All of that comes together in one growing-crazy-fast body, intermingles with hormones, and comes out in the form of tears.  Or, if your offspring is male, probably fewer tears and more surly attitude featuring disgusted moans, exasperated