The Emotional Lives of Teenagers
"The Emotional Lives of Teenagers: Raising Connected, Capable, and Compassionate Adolescents" by Lisa Damour offers insights into the complex world of teenage emotions and provides practical suggestions for parents to support their children through adolescence. Damour emphasises that teenagers' emotional experiences are intense and varied, often influenced by the rapid changes occurring in their brains and bodies. It is important that young people are encouraged to engage with their emotions rather than encouraged to block them out. They will require the support of parents and other adults in their lives to achieve this.
Teenagers' experiences can be overwhelming and confusing. Understanding and validating teenagers' emotions is important as they need to feel heard and supported during this crucial stage of their social and emotional development. Damour explains that while emotional struggles are common, they are not inherently negative and, with support, can serve as opportunities for growth.
Practical Suggestions for Parents:
Foster open communication: Create a safe and non-judgmental environment where your teenager feels comfortable expressing their emotions. Encourage conversations by actively listening, asking open-ended questions, and being empathetic.
Validate their feelings: Acknowledge and validate your teenager's emotions, even if you don't fully understand them. Let them know that it's normal to experience a wide range of emotions and that their feelings are valid and important.
Teach emotion regulation skills: Help your teenager develop healthy coping mechanisms and strategies to manage their emotions. Encourage them to engage in activities such as journaling, exercising, or practicing mindfulness, which can promote emotional well-being.
Set realistic expectations: Recognize that teenagers may experience mood swings and changes in behavior as part of their development. Avoid labeling their emotions as dramatic or irrational, and instead, work together to find constructive ways to address challenges.
Encourage peer connections: Understand the importance of social interactions for teenagers. Encourage your teenager to foster positive friendships and engage in activities that promote healthy socialisation. Getting involved in co-curricular activities is a great way of doing this. Monitor their social media use and help them navigate any negative influences.
Foster independence and responsibility: Provide opportunities for your teenager to take on responsibilities and make decisions. Gradually empower them to handle their own emotions and problem-solving, while still offering guidance and support when needed.
Remember, each teenager is unique, and their emotional journey may differ. By understanding and supporting your teenager's emotional development, you can help them navigate this transformative stage of life with resilience and confidence.
The Emotional Lives of Teenagers is available from the Palmerston North City Library.