Objectives for Helping Teens

The teenage years are a stressful time for most parents. During this transitional period, teenagers experience physical, behavioral and emotional changes. They are overly curious causing them to engage in experimental behaviors such as substance abuse and sexual intercourse. Teenagers additionally seek freedom that causes them to associate more with their peers than parents. Parents must remember to guide their children during this time to discover their full potential and steer them toward positive life choices, advises the American Psychological Association.

  1. Emotional Health

    • Most teenagers experience stressful situations caused by relationships, school, social peers and parents. Learning how to handle these life stresses prevents teenagers from sinking into depression, violence or developing suicidal thoughts. As the parent, you need to monitor the emotional health of your children; according to a 1997 study published in the "Journal of the American Medical Association" and conducted by Michael D. Resnick, Ph.D., et al., parental support is essential in ensuring teens learn to handle emotional distress. Employing the services of a child counselor may be useful to assist a stressed-out teenager.

    Physical Health

    • That same "JAMA" study found that the lifestyles of many teenagers leave them vulnerable to health risks, especially those engaging in substance abuse, such as alcohol, drugs or cigarettes. You can access many programs touching on adolescent health in schools, health care facilities or volunteer groups in your community. For example, programs preventing substance abuse and violence in youth. Teenagers who engage in sexual experimentation need advice on practicing safe sex and methods of preventing teenage pregnancy. As a parent, you need to organize a sit-down with your children to discuss the risks of behaviors such as unsafe sex and substance abuse.

    Education

    • School dropout among teenagers can have many reasons, including poor school attendance, teenage pregnancies, poor performance, substance abuse and poverty. School dropouts among teenagers usually lead to financial difficulties in their adult lives, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. You must keep a keen eye on the education of your children. Follow up on their school performance with teachers, and ensure your children have a scheduled study time, and assist them in selecting colleges and future course studies.

    Personal Life Choices

    • Although it may be hurtful watching your teenage child associate more with her peers, it provides an opportunity for you to groom her to be independent. Giving teenagers more responsibility shows you trust them and believe in them. Such show of confidence may boost the self-esteem of your child. Teenagers experience self-esteem challenges daily, especially from their peers; it is important to encourage your child to focus on his strengths in order to overcome self-esteem issues. When he does this, he is able to make informed decisions even when you are not around.

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