Improving Your Teen's Self-Esteem
The teenage years are often the most difficult time of
childhood. During this time, children are blossoming into adults
and struggle to determine the individual identity. It is no
shock the teen years are the most dreaded by parents, but these
fragile youngsters are at a critical time in their lives.
Often, boundaries are pushed and rules are stretched by a
teenager yearning to take that "next step" into adulthood. Teens
find themselves not only faced with emotional transitions, but
also physical changes. In the midst of these physical and
emotional evolutions, a teen's self-esteem can be compromised.
Parents can take certain steps in order to ensure that a child's
self-esteem is not affected by the turbulent teenage years.
The best way to improve your teen's self-esteem is to take an
active role in your child's life. By knowing his or her
interests, friends, strengths, and weaknesses, you will be aware
of any problems that may arise. Starting from a young age,
instill a positive attitude in your child. Children who have a
great sense of self-worth are more apt to blossom into teenagers
with a great sense of self-worth.
Take time to talk with your teen instead of talking to your
teen. If your child believes his or her opinion or thoughts have
an impact in the home front, that individual is more apt to have
a greater self-esteem. Allowing your teen to have a say in
decisions that affect the entire family will further impress a
sense of self-worth, thus positively affect his or her
self-esteem.
Children learn by example, and teenagers are no different.
Teens whose parents showcase high self-esteem are more likely to
exhibit self-esteem. Conversely, parents with low self-esteem or
who constantly question their self-worth will pass those traits
on to their children simply by their actions. The way you
interact with your friends, family members, and colleagues will
rub off on your children. Individuals with low self-esteem set
poor examples for their teens and should not be surprised when
their teens exhibit similar actions.
Children are like a sponge, so take care not to comment
negatively towards yourself or others. Many teens with issues
regarding their physical appearance learn these behaviors from
home. Television, movies, and music play a huge part in any
teenager's life. These outlets seem obsessed with a
pre-conceived idea of perfection that will most likely differ
from that of the average individual. Take time to speak with
your teen regarding these issues.
Interaction with your teenager will allow you first-hand
information on any problems he or she may be having and make an
attempt to remedy these situations. Often, teenagers are quite
sensitive about their appearance due to acne or other issues. If
this is the case, consider making an appointment with a
dermatologist who will be able to remedy the situation.
Similarly, your teen may be interested in changing his or her
appearance to best fit a burgeoning identity, but may be
hesitant to approach a parent. Remember, teenagers straddle the
line between child and young adult. Although they may yearn to
be an adult, the child part still needs reassurance from a
parent. If you as a parent feel a requested physical
transformation will not benefit your teen, make a compromise.
Often, teens are looking to be outrageous in order to push
boundaries set by parents. Instead of lowering your teen's
self-esteem by creating a confrontation, create an atmosphere of
discussion and compromise.
Open communication cannot be stressed enough. Take time to talk
to your teen about their friends, classes, activities, or
interests. Teach your teen to accentuate the positive instead of
focusing on attributes they see as weak or negative. Instill a
sense great self esteem at a young age that will continue with
your teen as he or she grows. You may wish to enroll your child
in self-esteem building classes or extra curricular activities
that will boost their self-worth. Whatever the case, taking an
active part in your teen's life is the best way to see them
through this transitional time in their lives with their
self-esteem intact.