Sherri has given us a lot to think about in her recent posts. She has discussed how you think through issues with your teen about feelings and relationships. I think that we can carry this further with helping our teen think about decision making. If our teen does not learn how to handle "small decisions" then he will not be able to work through more important decisions later. I often tell teens that there are two decisions that will have great impact on their lives: 1) the education and training you receive to prepare you for a job – hopefully one you like and 2) the person you select as your mate. Either decision can have a major impact on your life. I believe people get to the place where they can effectively consier the pros/cons of relationships and work when they have learned as a teen to solve problems. Help your teen think about traits he or she would want in a boyfriend or future spouse and then talk to the about how they evaluate this information and make decisions. Do the same exercise with work and career. You will be amazed at how much discussion can start form this.
Dr. Debra
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