TEENAGERS AND SELF-WORTH

I see many teens in my practice. I find that usually I have to spend part of my time with each one boosting their self-worth. Even though they may appear to be arrogant or self-absorbed; they are frequently not as confident under the surface. I find one simple solution is to provide them with lots and lots of positives. Positive comments need to be authentic and specific. We probably need to be doing this with everyone in our lives we find important to us but especially with our children. There are other things that make a difference. Pay attention to the activities that they do well. Not because you want them to be successful in that activity but they excel and they seem to love it. Give them support and encouragement in those activities. It is important for you to be a good role model. Make sure you don't practice negative self-talk. Don't put yourself down. Encourage positive relationships and their involvement in those relationships. Just make sure you are not trying to put your agenda on your teen. You may have a teen with good self-worth but if not try a few things to help this. Sherri