The physical, emotional, hormonal, and social changes taking place in the teenager can be overwhelming and difficult to go through. The teens crave autonomy that can lead to them engaging in experimentation with drugs or indulging in premarital sex. They also seek to chart an identity thus may most times have alternative views quite contrary to their parents. Therefore parents need attributes like patience, tolerance, forgiveness and empathy to navigate the world of adolescence with teens. The teens will then feel understood and accepted. This will cement a close relationship to help avert crisis like teen pregnancy or indulgence in drugs.
To set out and achieve a distinct identity and personality the parent needs to build the teens self esteem through recognition and affirming him/her. The teen needs constant positive reinforcement that is to feel appreciated. Applaud their talent in sports, art or academics pushing them onto finesse.
Allowing them time out to socialize with fellow teens is critical for their social development. Time out time in is a crucial point to be mutually set. It builds their social skills and networks critical for their future welfare. A reliable circle of peers for the teen reinforces values of integrity and love that friendship is meant to foster. This might stem in rebellion by the teen.
The parent should act as a mentor to their teen as their first port of call on any situation. This means that the parent should engage in dialogue and listen to the teenagers as they ventilate their feelings and issues. The parent needs to have a listening ear more and less of a critic so that the teenager can draw close and feel understood.
They can also engage the services of a professional mentor to help the teen chart through the choppy waters in an open and conducive atmosphere. This will help them to let go of unresolved issues, help them gain self mastery as well as develop life coping mechanisms.
Navigating the world of sexuality and intimacy is very critical but fraught with lots of challenges. Open discussion with the teen, unveiling the world of sexuality in a candid manner will help the teen develop positive attitude towards sex. An early start on matters sexual in the pre-teen years will give the parents a head start in discussing the nitty-gritty as the teen reaches the transition age.
Helping the teen to chart the way towards developing the teen’s spiritual world and convictions is another important of a parent’s role. Religion will key role in developing close bond not only with the Creator, but also with the family, the community at large as well with self. It will help address and reinforce question of identity and purpose in life.
A parent’s role in the life of their teen is critical for their future wellbeing.