Help Your Teenager Increase Their Self Esteem

By Scotie Keithlow

Adolescence is probably the most befuddling time that an individual goes through. It is a time when you are no longer a child but have yet to enter complete adulthood. This age of incomplete maturity can be extremely dangerous. There is many a fall in the attempt of the young fledglings to spread their wings and fly. There is a conflict between the child and the emerging individual who has his own opinions and preferences.

Have obtained a considerable understanding of how the adult world functions, there is extreme excitement to experience this new world individually without being guarded by parents. Yearning to enter adulthood, these transforming young tykes do not understand that they have absorbed only a fraction of the mysteries that adult life has in store for them. At a time like this, the teenagers not only go through emotional turmoil and conflicts but also experience physical changes.

All this and much more than what anyone can put on paper is what these teenagers go through between the fragile years of thirteen to eighteen. The most long lasting effect that this phase can leave on the child's psychology is the lowering of self esteem, if not handled judiciously.

Parents need to realize that they have a principal role to play in seeing their young ones through these turbulent times. The process of holding your child's hand through this process starts with taking an active interest in his or her friends, hobbies and interests. Take time out to understand the strengths and weaknesses of your child. This allows you to empathize what your child may be experiencing and will provide an insight into the likely pitfalls that he or she may face while confronting new situations.

Setting a good example is very important. Children and teens learn by example and if you exude self esteem, the youngsters are also likely to have a positive attitude. It is important also to understand that your 'minors' are now becoming 'majors' and need to be given respect. Invite and appreciate their contribution to an adult family discussion and make them a part of the decision making process at home. Discuss the issues which you know may be bothering them but are uncomfortable for them to talk about. Understand that the media focus on perfection may influence your teens and try and show them the practical aspect if life.

Sense the troubles that your child may be having and initiate a discussion around it. If he or she is breaking into an obnoxious inflammation due to acne, take the first step in contacting a dermatologist. In a particularly harassing event for you try and keep your calm and avoid confrontation. Encourage discussions and compromise when you need to.

If you feel that the self esteem of your child is going through more turmoil than you can handle, arrange for self esteem building classes.

The key to seeing your child through this perplexing phase is to encourage open communication and provide voluntary information.

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