Imagine growing up today: Your best friend got a nose ring, tattoos abound in gym class, and classmates talk about
everything from hairstyles to homosexuality in Internet chat rooms. Think
about raging hormones, a need to rebel, and peer pressure in your child's daily
life. It's no wonder that teens and preteens have the potential for making
mistakes that could affect the rest of their lives. Some of these mistakes may involve alcohol and drug use or abuse, high-risk sexual behavior, or violence. Your teen may also be dealing with stress or depression.
The world has
changed so quickly that parents may not recognize the pitfalls awaiting their
children. You may be shocked and confused by your child's completely unfamiliar
world. Help your child to make good choices by understanding the daily
pressures he or she must deal with. Don't isolate yourself from his or her
reality out of fear or feeling uncomfortable.
Ask your child to tell you about anything that bothers him or her, such as bullying or a concern about a friend's actions. And have ongoing talks about your child's everyday activities.
February 28, 2012
Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
& Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics
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