How to Build Self Esteem in Adolescents

Adolescence is a turbulent time for any teenager. We've all heard about how hormones wreak havoc on a teen's mood and how peer pressure influences a teen's decision-making abilities. But in the midst of all this, adolescence is also a time of identity development. Granted, peer pressure can lead even the most well-balanced teen off track, and those whacky hormones are certainly something to contend with. However, good self esteem is something you can actually have control over. Building self esteem in adolescents will quite literally, give them the self confidence needed to develop into loving, responsible, well-adjusted adults.

Instructions

    • 1

      Be generous with praise. Look for situations where your teen has accomplished something new, displays a talent, acts selflessly, or demonstrates other positive character traits. Praising a teen for a job well done fosters independence and promotes positive self-worth. Think of giving compliments like putting money in your teen's emotional savings bank. Each will build upon the last.

    • 2

      Teach positive self statements. Have your teen verbalize what they find good about themselves. Help them to take pride in their accomplishments. It is important for a teenager to be able to identify positive things about themselves because if they come up with it, they are more likely to believe it.

    • 3

      Avoid harsh criticism. Let's face it: teenagers are going to make bad decisions. But it is true that we learn from our own mistakes. You can build upon that by helping your teen identify the problem and then brainstorm alternatives together. Allowing your teen to brainstorm with you will help increase confidence and pushes him or her to become invested in making positive change.

    • 4

      Teach teenagers about decision-making and then allow them to make their own decisions. Praise good decisions, but let them take ownership of their mistakes. Avoid solving their problems for them, as this will allow them to continually depend on you. Teach decision-making skills such as making a list and weighing the consequences of each outcome.

    • 5

      Laugh at yourself. Show teenagers that some teasing is just for fun and that when we make mistakes, it is sometimes best to find the humor in it rather than focus on the negative. Show them that dwelling on mistakes (even if they are only perceived ones) will prevent your teen from moving forward and achieving success in that area.

    • 6

      Promote positive body image. During adolescence, the body goes through so much change it can be awkward for a teenager to adjust. With the media influencing adolescents' opinions of themselves, getting your teen to accept themselves for who they are it is a challenge. Remind your teenager that bodies come in all different shapes and sizes. Help them to identify what can be changed. Help them set realistic goals, encourage them along the way, and praise them when they achieve their goals.

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