A Few Basic Parenting Tips For Raising Teenagers

By Jocelyn Davidson


Teens from every culture, regardless of whether they are rich, poor, male or female have caused their parents despair. This difficult stage of growing up involves tremendous changes in the body, the mind and the perceptions of every young person. They see the world through new eyes and they often rebel against the established order of things. This can cause conflict and unhappiness. By following a few basic parenting tips for raising teenagers it is possible to weather the storm unscathed.

Teens sometimes behave atrociously and feel as if the entire world is against them. Parents need to make sure that their teens know that they are loved. They need to understand that the love of their parents is not conditional. The certain knowledge that they are loved will serve as a constant comfort, even when they experience inner conflict, anger and pressure from their peers.

Teens must understand that they are part of a household where every member should be treated with consideration. This means that there must be at least some rules. It may be best to discuss the ground rules during a family conference. Every member, including the teen, should have the chance to provide input and once consensus is achieved, the rules should be inviolate. Non compliance must have consequences and those consequences must not be negotiable.

Teens are also often under immense pressure from their peers to experiment with a wide variety of vices. They may decide to get a tattoo or they may even experiment with drugs and alcohol. Despite the fact that such behavior is frightening and worrying, parents should not react with anger and outrage. The teen should be informed about the potential consequences of his choices and it is often possible to negotiate a cooling off period.

Behind their pretense and their know it all attitudes many teens are vulnerable and naive. This exposes them to those elements that prey on the weaknesses of others. Ignorance has caused many teens to make costly mistakes. It is therefore vital to make sure that they are informed on matters such as safe sex, online security and personal hygiene, to name a few.

The importance of setting a good example simply cannot be overemphasized. Teens are normally extremely critical and they will not heed advice or admonishments when they the parents to not heed their own advice. Teens see them as hypocrites. Parents should also be willing to admit to mistakes and they should apologize if the occasion calls for it. In this way the teen will learn that everybody makes mistakes but that mistakes should be acknowledged and rectified.

Teens are entering their adult lives and parents will do well if they acknowledge the fact that their teens may have valuable and valid opinions. Teens must be encouraged to provide input when family decisions are made. Parents should make it clear that the input is deemed important. It may also be a good idea to give the teen more responsibilities. This will show him that he is trusted.

Parents should remember that their teens are experiencing extraordinary changes. They are on the brink of adulthood and they are often scared and unsure of themselves. Parents should provide a safe haven full of love, understanding and support. This will give the teen confidence.




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