How to Improve a Teenager's Self-Esteem
As a parent, you must be aware of the impact you have on your teenager's sense of self-worth. Your words and actions help build or tear down your teen's self-esteem. Self-esteem issues affect teenager's from all walks of life whether they be healthy or ill, rich or poor or come from an a single-parent or two-parent home. During those moments, it will be up to you to step in and coax your child to improve her self-esteem.
Instructions
Praise your child for making positive decisions and caring for his appearance. Tell him you like his hair style and he looks handsome. If he brings home a test with a higher than normal score, tell him, "Excellent job. I appreciate your hard work." Putting a positive value on his actions shows him he is worthy of recognition. Trust her to make decisions. Show her she is capable of finding the answers for which she is looking. Talk to her about the events taking place in her life. Allow her to discuss situations and find a solution. Knowing she has the intelligence to problem solve will build self-confidence. Show empathy towards your teen. Relate to the situations with which he is faced. Tell him that "society was different when I was a teenager, but I remember how difficult it could be." Do not diminish his feelings or pretend to know exactly what he feels. Speak in a calm voice and reassure him with possible solutions to the situations plaguing him. Set achievable goals for your teen. If she is musically inclined, push her to try out for choir or to ask the band or orchestra director if she can test for a better seat. Tell her it's acceptable to not be the best at everything. Spur her to give back to the community. By doing so, you are telling her she is good enough to help others. Create a healthy routine for the entire family. Serve whole grains and limit junk food. Play outdoor games as a family. Exercise and a well-balanced diet work together to create a healthy teen. When you focus on the family as a whole you avoid pointing out any one individual in need of making a physical change. Healthy teenagers generally have higher self-esteems.