Your teen’s self-image and confidence levels are among the most important aspects of his or her life. It’s a defining factor in a child’s ability to develop the kind of character, confidence, and motivation it takes to succeed in life.
When a child has a negative self-image and low self-esteem, their chance of developing a positive outlook about life declines. Teens with self-image issues are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, fear of school, and they are more likely to withdraw from things they once enjoyed. This is an age that’s complex and confusing for many teens, and their parents aren’t always capable of understanding what their teens are going through. This makes the situation worse, but there are a few ways you can help your teen develop a healthy self-image and more confidence.
1. Model positive self-image
Kids learn by example far more than they learn from your words. When you tell your teen she’s beautiful, intelligent, and hilarious, she’s more likely to believe you when she sees you modelling the same traits. If she sees you constantly put yourself down when staring in the mirror or hears you putting yourself down for being stupid or slow, she’s going to learn to talk to herself the same way. It might be late in the game, but one good way to help your teen gain positive self-esteem is to model it at home. Be a good example of a person comfortable in your own body with your flaws and imperfections and all.
2. Encourage your kids to volunteer
Perspective isn’t such a bad thing in teens. If your teenager has a self-image issue because he feels he’s not well dressed, not as good-looking as others, or he feels he doesn’t have as much as other kids, there is a way to help with that. When kids help, it makes them feel good. Perhaps it will do your teen well to see how other kids live when they volunteer. This kind of perspective helps them feel much better about their own life, what they have, and where they are. Many kids have far less than yours, and seeing that firsthand can change their perspective on life quickly. Giving back helps kids feel good about themselves, and it helps them develop a positive self-image.
3. Use positive reinforcement
Kids respond to what they hear. If you constantly spend your time recognizing all the things your children do wrong, you’ll make them feel that’s all they do. Instead of focusing on the negatives, focus on the positives. Praise your kids when they do something well, when they are kind, and when they deserve it. When you focus on the good traits they possess, you encourage them to show more of their positive traits.
4. Seek therapy and/or treatment
Sometimes the effects of low self-esteem are too advanced to repair without professional help. Sometimes kids need someone impartial to listen to them, and they need new experiences to help them work through their self-image issues. The key to a successful therapy experience is to find the one that works well with your teen’s personality. It might be group therapy, it might be family therapy, or it might be a form of wilderness therapy. Each one is a unique experience designed to help teens learn more about themselves, which is often helpful in teaching kids to value themselves more appropriately.
Teens are fickle, and sometimes you don’t know how to handle them. It’s not an uncommon feeling to feel lost or confused about how to help your teen when their self-image suffers. There are ways to help, but you must know what is right for your teen. What works for one might not work for another, and that’s all right. Your child will respond to the right treatment, the right help, and it will happen at the right time. Remember to show love and affection, pride and positive reinforcement to help your teen get through this difficult time.
If you enjoyed this post, feel free to share it with your friends and family. After all, sharing is caring!
