This study examines the influence of teenagers on their parents in the socio-cultural contexts of sub-Saharan Africa (Togo) and Western Europe (Belgium). Through an inductive qualitative approach, the data of semi-directive interviews with teenagers who use psychoactive substances were analyzed using the Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis method. The results show a bidirectionality of this influence and the themes that emerged refer to the school performance, the substances use and the material and emotional needs of youths. The study showed that the cultural meanings associated with parent-adolescent relationships and substances use influence the teenager’s agency. It has led to a better understanding of the teenager as an active partner in the process of the building of his own identity in the same way as parents and help to change many preconceived ideas about teenagers who use psychoactive substances.