Almost every parent of a teenager will go through at least one tempestuous and turbulent period at some or other stage. Usually earlier with girls than with boys. But, it probably will come and sometimes – often – many more than one. It is, after, teens job description, to separate from their parents and find their own identity.

It’s quite easy to believe that bringing up teens has suddenly got more difficult in the last couple of decades, and perhaps this is true. However, it’s always been a bit of a tricky time; for parents and their teens.

To some extent, even if it’s not our own children – we can relate to: “teenagers these days are out of control. They eat like pigs, they are disrespectful towards adults, they interrupt and contradict their parents, and they terrorise their teachers.” And this is Aristotle and that was more than 2300 years ago.

The ever-evolving landscape of social media.

So while it is true that raising teenagers can be difficult, there are some modern complications that certainly add complexity to the mix. Perhaps because of the rate of change in technology and the fact that the challenges that teenagers have now, their parents have little experience of themselves. And each moment, these challenges compound and expand.

Cell phones are not entirely to blame, but they do have a great deal to do with modern parenting challenges. At a time, the first time for most young teenagers, adults cease to become their models and peers take that place, social media plays an incredibly influential role.

Navigating the tumultuous waters of raising teenagers in the digital age takes some work and understanding and a great deal of honest communication. As parents, we find ourselves in a constant dance with the ever-evolving landscape of social media: a powerful force that shapes how our teens interact, communicate, and perceive their world, behaviours, their peers and themselves.

Balancing the benefits and pitfalls of social media.

Let’s face it, the challenges are abundant. From cyberbullying to unrealistic body image standards, social media poses numerous threats that can leave parents feeling disempowered, excluded and helpless .

The pressure for teens to fit in, the fear of missing out, and the endless cycle of comparison can take a toll on our teens’ mental health, leading to issues like depression, anxiety, and social exclusion. The constant exposure to curated and often exaggerated versions of others’ lives can be a breeding ground for feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.

In a world where likes and comments can hold more weight than genuine human connection, it’s easy for our teens to lose sight of what truly matters. Academic performance may suffer as scrolling through feeds takes precedence over studying, and the temptation of instant gratification from screens can hinder the development of important life skills.

However, amidst the chaos, there are some silver linings to be found. Social media can provide a platform for teens to express themselves creatively, sharing their passions and talents with the world. It allows them to cultivate supportive communities, where they can find acceptance, understanding, and encouragement from peers who may be going through similar struggles. The ability to stay connected with friends, even across great distances, can offer a sense of belonging and strengthen bonds that might otherwise have faded.

Finding a balance between the benefits and pitfalls of social media is crucial. Encouraging healthy habits, promoting offline activities, and fostering open communication are key in supporting our teens through the challenges they face. It’s about guiding our children to use social media as a tool for empowerment rather than a source of detriment and damage, helping them harness its potential for good while safeguarding against its darker aspects.

"Raising teens in the digital age is no small feat, but with understanding, patience, and a healthy dose of humour, we can navigate this journey together."

Marc Falconer – Functional Parent Coach

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The Job Description of a Teenager

The ever-evolving landscape of social media.

Balancing the benefits and pitfalls of social media.

"Raising teens in the digital age is no small feat, but with understanding, patience, and a healthy dose of humour, we can navigate this journey together."