3 Myths Parents Should Ditch When Raising Resilient Teens

Do you still believe these? ⬇️

Raising a teenager can be a rollercoaster ride of emotions, challenges, and triumphs. And when it comes to fostering resilience in your child, there's a lot of misinformation out there. Let's debunk some common myths and equip you with practical advice to help your teen navigate the social minefield with confidence.

Myth 1: "Just toughen them up."

Being hard on our teens or brushing off their feelings and worries breaks them down.   Instead, create a safe space for your teen to land and recover by allowing them to express their emotions and responding with empathy. This nurturing environment enables them to develop healthy coping mechanisms and navigate life's challenges with confidence.

Myth 2: "Shield them from all negativity."

Instead of shielding your teen from all difficult experiences and negative emotions, equip them with the emotional tools to thrive in a world full of challenges. Teach them to identify their emotions, validate their feelings, and give them time to process. This approach will not only instill resilience but also nurture their emotional intelligence.

Myth 3: "They'll figure it out on their own."

While it's crucial to grant your teen autonomy, they still require your guidance and support. Be a sounding board, offering a listening ear and reflective questions rather than jumping in to fix their problems. Provide encouragement and affirmation instead of unsolicited advice. Guide them in developing problem-solving skills rather than taking over the process.

By empowering them with these tools, you'll foster their independence and resilience.

Cameron (Dr. Cam) Caswell, PhD

Cameron (Dr. Cam) Caswell, PhD, “the Teen Translator,” is an adolescent psychologist, parent coach, TEDx speaker, author, and host of “Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam” podcast. She is on a mission to help parents build strong, positive relationships with their teens through improved communication, connection, and understanding. Dr. Cam is the mom of a teen too, so she not only talks the talk, she walks the walk!

Visit Dr. Cam’s website: www.askdrcam.com

https://www.askdrcam.com
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