Helping your teen with their self esteem

Adolescence can be a very difficult time as teens start to develop a sense of their own identity and wonder where they belong in the world or whether they fit in at all.

This is why many teenagers lack confidence and can suffer from a low self esteem.

Here are some tips to help with a teen’s self esteem:

1. Acknowledging that teens did well and telling them that they are capable is very important. They will learn that they can do well. Parents could also tell their teens what is good about their behaviour instead of just calling them “good children”. Try to be more specific.

2. They need to know that they are worthy of love just for being themselves and that they are important. Saying “I love you,” giving them hugs or showing an interest in them will convey this message.

3. Be genuine about compliments you give your teen. When parents are being fake, an adolescent will sense that their mum doesn’t believe in the compliment. This will lead them to feel worse than if nothing was said at all.

4.  Recognise their hobbies as something that is important to them and find a way to show an interest in them. You could even get your teen to teach you their hobbies, giving you something to do together.

5. The teenage years are a time to prepare for adulthood. Teens will need to learn to do things for themselves.  They will learn that they are capable, which will help build a sturdy foundation of self-confidence. Teens will also feel that they are an important part of the family. Feeling useful and needed is a very powerful way for them to feel good about themselves.

Self esteem is an important asset for a person to have as it allows them to respond to others and themselves in a healthy and positive way.