Self-esteem of a teenager

Adolescence is a period of formationself-evaluation. Of course, it begins to form in early childhood, but it is in adolescence that the child begins to fully realize himself as part of the society. Ideally, the adolescent's self-evaluation goes through several stages, from complete ignorance in relation to themselves and their abilities and to the formation of an adequate self-assessment - an objective attitude to one's qualities, abilities and capabilities.

In practice, however, the self-esteem of a teenager is in most cases underestimated. The development of low self-esteem is affected by differentfactors: this is the physical changes in the body, which often lead to adolescent complexes associated with appearance; and the search for approval by peers, which are not always crowned with success; and "suspended state" between the world of adults and the world of children.

Despite the fact that in adolescence forchildren of the same age are more prestigious than parents, it is parents who can and should help a teenager increase their self-esteem. A teenager struggles to become part of a society that often turns out to be hostile. Therefore, he needs a "quiet harbor", where he will be loved and accepted, no matter what. Such a "quiet haven" should be a house and a family: a teenager needs a place where he needs to feel protected.

Problems with self-esteem in a teenager can arise because he constantly compares himself with other people. Parents should explain to him that all people are different: someone is more successful in one, someone in another. The fact that he is different from someone does not mean that he is worse. He's just different.

Wherein it is important to back up your words with actions: never compare a child with his friendsor simply peers, especially if this comparison is not in his favor. Adolescents are very sensitive to criticism, they painfully perceive remarks in their address, therefore it is necessary to criticize the adolescent very gently, preferably - combining it with praise to "sweeten the pill".

Also self-esteem of a teenager is closely related to his progress in school. Often in high school children's performancefalls not only because communication with peers interests them much more than solving equations or memorizing irregular verbs, but also because of their lack of self-confidence.

The entrance to higher education is near, the teacher is becoming more demanding, learning becomes harder. During this difficult period Adolescents are not only interested in evaluation, but also in the approval of teachers. Lack of praise and encouragement fromteachers often leads to the fact that a teenager loses confidence in his abilities and, as a consequence, an interest in learning. A pier, what for to try, if all the same leaves nothing?

If the underestimated self-esteem of a teenager is related tothe fact that he can not realize himself in the school team, you can invite him to enroll in a circle, club or section, where he can find new friends who share his interests. Maybe, in the company of like-minded people it will be easier for him to open up and feel himself "his". In addition, success in your favorite hobby also playsan important role in raising self-esteem. That is why the circle teenager should choose himself, based on their own interests: do not insist on ballroom dancing, if your child dreams of drawing or playing the guitar.

Important to remember: Despite the fact that adolescents often hide their true feelings behind the mask of self-confidence, they are very vulnerable. Do not let a teenage boy deceive you with hisbravado: at this age he needs your support and approval more than ever. It is your praise that will help him to regain his confidence. But do not over-praise: an overestimated self-esteem of a teenager can become no less a source of problems than an understated one.