Adolescent Self Esteem

Adolescent self-esteem is very fragile because outward image is what is important to them in these years. So, anything from a bad haircut to failing to make the team can shatter adolescent self-esteem.

Adolescents are extremely self conscious and generally always looking to impress their peers.

Often an adolescent’s childhood can lead to problems later in life. If they were not brought up to value themselves highly, this can have a negative impact on their teenage years and adulthood.

Unfortunately, their parents’ opinions no longer mean as much to them as they once did. So, simple, reassuring words are not going to be able to be a quick fix for adolescent self-esteem. However, there are some things that you can do to help your adolescent with their self-esteem.

First of all, it is very important to accept your child for who they are. You should not be critical regardless of their hair color or clothing choices. Instead, make sure you tell your adolescent what you like about them as often as possible.

You could even take a few minutes to write them a letter in which you tell them everything that you really like and admire about them. Another thing that you can do is spend as much one-on-one time with them as you possibly can.

Whenever adolescent self-esteem takes a blow, the adolescent may exhibit symptoms of depression such as changes in sleep patterns, low energy, difficulty concentrating, irritability and changes in eating patterns.

Whilst minor symptoms are normal from time to time, if the symptoms affect the adolescent’s ability to function, or last for more than 1 week, it is time to take your adolescent to the pediatrician.