a positive identity
Posted on Sat, 1 Aug 09
POSITIVE IDENTITY (as taken from SEARCH INSTITUTE)
TAKE ACTION
Help the young person to learn to brainstorm and choose solutions to problems so that he or she learns to be empowered.
A young persons personal power (self-esteem) might come from successful team work, a rewarding service activity, or remembering to do chores without being told. Look for ways to identify and recognize the young persons growing personal power.
As you watch the young person become more empowered and self-assured, have ongoing conversations about the new responsibilities this age brings and about your confidence in their ability to navigate their expanding world.
Help the young person understand the difference(s) between what we can and can’t control. For example, we can control what we say and do; we can’t control what other people say and do.
TAKE ACTION
Talk openly and positively about changes happening in the young persons body—growth spurts and puberty.
Tell young people how proud you are of them. Be sure to let them know you enjoy their company.
When teen acne appears, help young people explore options for effectively treating it with frequent face washing, over-the-counter products, and/or dermatologist-prescribed medication.
Tell young people what’s special about them and that your love for them will never end. Some people think young people just know these things. They won’t, unless they hear it directly from those close to them.
* For more on this topic, see Helping Teens Handle Tough Experiences: Strategies to Foster Resilience by Jill R. Nelson and Sarah Kjos and Parenting Preteens with a Purpose: Navigating the Middle Years by Kate Thomsen.
TAKE ACTION
Stock your bookshelves with inspiring books about heroes who have made a difference with their lives.
Tell young people about a time when you really messed up and learned from it.
Positive View of Personal Future | Young person is optimistic about her or his personal future.
TAKE ACTION
Encourage young people to spend time in their high school guidance office, reading through career and college planning materials.
Talk to young people about how they feel about themselves and what they envision for their future.
If your teenager is passionate about animals, encourage her or him to consider education or career paths that involve animals when she or he considers post-high school opportunities. There are many.
Ask young people about their goals and dreams. Help them think about the resources (financial and otherwise) they will need to make these goals a reality.
* For more on this topic, see Just When I Needed You: True Stories of Adults Who Made a Difference in the Lives of Young People by Deborah Fisher.
Tags: Positive Identity, Search Institue
Comments (0)
There are currently no comments. Feel free to add your own.
