Myths about teens you should not believe
Teenage years are surely the best, but they can be as turbulent and confusing. While it is a stage in life wherein a child steps into the world of maturity and responsibility, they experience several hurdles and complex emotions. Not only do they undergo an array of physical changes, but they also have to face many emotional rollercoasters. And while doing so, they also have to battle harsh myths and misconceptions about them by parents and society as a whole.
That said, listed down are some false impressions about teenagers that parents must know about and should stop giving into.
Also read: Parenting tips to ensure your kid remains safe and healthy this Diwali
#1 Being a teenager is just a phase
While it may seem difficult to understand and empathize with your teen's behaviour, isn't it just convenient and easy to label it as 'a phase'. Well, it's not. Surely, maturity comes with age. But emotions and frustrations remain the same, unless you listen to your child and help them resolve it. Calling it just a phase only invalidates their feelings and makes them feel unheard and all the more irritated.
#2 Teens are spoiled, lazy and mannerless
It's a popular misconception that teens are spoiled brats, who are lazy, selfish and good for nothing. But the truth is that teenagers are self-focused and just trying to adjust themselves as per the world they have to battle everyday. They're not being mean, rude or demanding because they want to. It is just a way for them to fit in. Therefore, rather than looking down on them for how they are, let's focus on empowering them, listening to them and trying to understand what they're going through in their day to day lives.
#3 Teenage kids love to rebel
Rebellion is not just a teenage thing. Rather it can happen at every stage in life. Being a rebel is just a response to unrealistic expectations and never-ending demands, which can arise as and when the child steps into the adolescent years. "Don't wear this," "What will people say?", "stop doing this'', "don't do that" - all these limiting and restricting phrases can take a toll on a child's confidence and self-esteem, which is when they form a protective shield, where they stop caring. And this is universal! It's all about how much a person can take and till when...
#4 They're irresponsible
Teens are not irresponsible, just curious. That said, in a bid to learn new things, they sometimes make mistakes. However, it is in the hands of parents to guide them rather than calling them out and making them feel miserable about themselves.
#5 They have no interest in spending time with their parents
It's not that your teen does not want to spend time with you. Just that they want to do it on their own terms. If they turn down all your proposals to spend quality time, it may not be because they don't want to hang out or chill with you. Rather, maybe they don't want to have lunch or dinner. Maybe they just want to sit on the couch with you, watch late night movies or play some board games. That said, sometimes, just do things their way.
What you should as a parent
As a parent, always provide your teen with the support they need. Do not shut them out or give into the myths listed above. Always give your child the benefit of the doubt, a room to make mistakes and a space where they can talk to you freely, without fearing any judgment.
Set healthy boundaries and let them know that you'll be there to help whenever they need it.
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