Does a Dog Help a Teen With Low Self-Esteem?

A dog is known as man's best friend for good reason. Loyal and affectionate, a canine companion can enrich his owner's life in many ways. In particular, someone with low self-esteem may find a pet dog to be extremely beneficial. Many teenagers suffer from periods of low self-esteem as they try to navigate the choppy waters of adolescence and deal with all of its associated highs and lows.

  1. Unconditional Love

    • A teenager who lacks self-esteem may feel isolated from her peers and unable to confide in her parents about personal issues. The company of a dog can be a huge comfort and alleviate feelings of loneliness and awkwardness. A dog offers genuine unconditional love: he simply accepts his owner for who she is and doesn't judge, question or criticize.

    Physical Activity

    • All dogs need exercise, so talking his dog for a walk is the perfect opportunity for a teenager to get outdoors and benefit from fresh air and physical activity. The United Kingdom's National Health Service recommends physical activity to improve mental health. Exercise allows people to take control of their bodies, which is often the first step toward regaining control of other aspects of their life, says mental health specialist Dr. Alan Cohen. Many forms of exercise beside walking can be enjoyed with a dog, such as cycling, rollerblading, jogging and throwing a ball. Exercise releases chemicals called endorphins into the brain, which trigger positive responses in the body, including improved self-esteem.

    Social Life

    • Dogs can help teenagers be more sociable and make new friends, suggests HelpGuide. A teen may meet her peers while walking her dog in the park or taking part in a dog training class. A dog is a great ice-breaker, avoiding awkward social situations and putting the teenager at ease with people she meets. The more confident she becomes when out and about with her dog, the more her self-esteem will improve.

    Extreme Cases

    • In some cases, having a dog will not help with a teenager's low self-esteem. If a teenager is suffer from depression, an anxiety disorder or is developing dangerous habits such as alcohol and drug abuse, more extreme action may be required. In these cases, professional help should be sought and all treatment plans considered. Parents who suspect that their teen's low self-esteem is a sign of a far more serious problem should ask a suitably qualified health professional for advice.

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