Teenagers often struggle with their real identities. They seek acceptance and belonging among their peers. When they fail in this regard, what often happens is that they develop low self-esteem.
There are many factors that can lead a child to have a low self-esteem. It may not necessarily affect your peers or friends, but it can come from various aspects of life. Their lack of self-confidence may even be influenced by their own parents and other family members, as well as their classmates.
The inferiority complex develops when an adolescent child focuses more on the negative than the positive. In cases where friends do not accept it, the adolescent is more likely to feel disappointed and depressed. There is also a tendency to sulk and not introduce yourself to friends at school or in your community.
So what can you do as a parent? What is the correct step to take to help your child cope with the problem?
Family therapists point out that strong parental support and motivation is very important in overcoming the inferiority complex. Motivation can take many forms. This can mean encouraging your child in everything he does, whether at school or in his community, using positive words when acknowledging his accomplishments, and assuring him of your continued love and support.
It is at this time that parents also need to establish a strong bond with their teens. Find out what your child likes to do during his free time. Watch him and talk to him about pursuing hobbies he enjoys, such as drawing, painting, playing musical instruments, or martial arts. If your child likes to read, give him good books or go to a bookstore together and find out what reading materials are available there.
Eating together as a family is also essential. Family counselors emphasize that mealtime is an ideal time when parents and their children can update each other on the day’s activities. Some parents may not know it, but eating together less often can lead teens to try not-so-great activities like drinking alcohol or even trying drugs.
Communication is another vital aspect of improving your teen’s self-image. The way you interact with your child has a huge impact on him, so as a parent, you need to learn to be calm when talking to your child, regardless of where you are. In front of friends and family, try to say positive things and avoid reprimanding your child.
What parents need to keep in mind also relates to how they discipline their teens. Severe discipline when applied often can result in a rebellious child.
If possible, you shouldn’t practice having high expectations of your teenager either. Many parents feel guilty about this, but do not realize the negative effect of their behavior on their children. When teens are expected to do well in school or extracurricular activities, they come under pressure and when they fail, they develop low self-esteem.
So practice these steps, and eventually you will have a more confident teen.
