Teens and the Self-Esteem Shield
It's a powerful weapon in the war against teenage drug and alcohol abuse and it doesn't cost parents a penny. It's called the "self-esteem shield."
Research shows that adolescents who grow up with high self-esteem are far less likely to abuse drugs or drink compared to children who grow up without much sense of self-worth.
"There's no doubt that kids with a strong sense of self-esteem have an easier time resisting drugs and alcohol," says Howard Goldman, M.D. of Bradenton, FL. Dr. Goldman suggests several steps parents can take to help their children develop self-esteem, including:
- Listen carefully to your teenager when he or she is trying to tell you something--and make it clear that you're very interested. For example: Turn off the TV or put down the newspaper when the child speaks to you, and don't take phone calls during the conversation. Also, be sure to praise the child's efforts to communicate with you, whenever possible.
- To teach self-respect, you must show respect at all times. Speak to your child with respect--even when upset or angry--and never give in to the temptation to shout or demean.
- Focus on the positive. Praise the child's behavior when appropriate, but don't exaggerate. For children and especially adolescents, express confidence in their ability.
- Enjoy your teenager while you can. Tap into his or her humor, energy and creative sense of possibility. The odds are high that you'll get into closer touch with your own youthful side--often with delightfully unexpected results!
