Teens

Parenting during the teenage years can be challenging, but there are crucial positive parenting strategies that can help. It’s important to maintain a strong parent-teen relationship, even as teens seek more independence. By spending quality time together, showing interest in their activities, and respecting their privacy, parents can foster a positive connection with their teenagers.

• Building a strong parent-teen relationship is crucial during the teenage years.
• Spending quality time together and showing interest in their activities helps foster a positive connection.
• Promoting self-esteem in teens through involvement and genuine compliments is important.
• Effective communication, including active listening and empathy, plays a major role in maintaining a strong parent-teen relationship.
• Establishing boundaries and expectations while allowing teens to have a say in decision-making is essential.

Parenting teenagers requires effort and understanding. By implementing these positive parenting strategies, parents can navigate the challenges of the teenage years and create a happier and more successful environment for their teenagers.

Building Strong Parent-Teen Relationships

Maintaining a strong parent-teen relationship is important, even as teens seek more independence. During the teenage years, it is crucial for parents to find a balance between granting autonomy and staying connected with their teens. One effective way to build a strong parent-teen relationship is by spending quality time together. Whether it’s engaging in shared activities or simply having meaningful conversations, dedicating time to bond can foster a positive connection.

Open communication is also key in establishing a supportive relationship with your teenager. Actively listen to their thoughts and concerns without judgment, allowing them to express themselves freely. Showing empathy and understanding their perspective can strengthen the trust between you and your teen. Make an effort to have daily conversations with your teen, creating an environment where they feel comfortable sharing their experiences and seeking guidance.

Respecting your teen’s privacy is another aspect of building a strong relationship. While it’s important to stay involved and be aware of their activities, it’s equally crucial to give them space to develop their own identity. Finding a balance between being supportive and allowing independence can help foster mutual respect and trust. Encouraging open and honest communication can also strengthen the parent-teen bond, as teenagers feel heard and understood.

In addition to these strategies, for additional insights and valuable advice on navigating the complexities of parent-teen relationships, consider visiting Famous Parenting, a resourceful parenting blog.

In conclusion, building strong parent-teen relationships requires quality time, open communication, and a supportive attitude. By dedicating time to connect with your teenager, actively listening to their thoughts and concerns, and respecting their privacy, you can establish a positive and lasting bond. Remember, maintaining a strong relationship with your teenager can contribute to their overall happiness and success.

Promoting Self-Esteem in Teens

Promoting self-esteem in teens is crucial, with parents being involved and offering genuine compliments. During the teenage years, when adolescents are experiencing various physical, emotional, and social changes, their self-esteem can often be fragile. As parents, it is important to provide support and encouragement to help build their confidence.

One effective way to promote self-esteem is through involved parenting. This means taking an active interest in your teen’s life, hobbies, and accomplishments. Ask them about their interests, attend their extracurricular activities, and show genuine enthusiasm for their achievements. When your teen knows that you are genuinely interested in their life, it can boost their self-esteem and strengthen your parent-teen relationship.

In addition, offering genuine compliments can have a significant impact on your teen’s self-esteem. Praising their efforts, highlighting their strengths, and acknowledging their accomplishments can help them develop a positive self-image. Remember to be specific in your compliments, focusing on their character traits or actions rather than just their appearance. This will reinforce their self-worth and teach them to value themselves beyond their physical attributes.

The Power of Positive Affirmations

Positive affirmations are another valuable tool in promoting self-esteem. Encourage your teen to practice positive self-talk by affirming their abilities and qualities. Help them identify their strengths and remind them of their worthiness. For example, phrases like “I am capable,” “I am resilient,” or “I am deserving of love and respect” can have a powerful impact on their self-esteem, fostering a positive mindset.

By promoting self-esteem in teens, parents can help them navigate the challenges of adolescence with greater confidence. Remember, building self-esteem is an ongoing process that requires consistent support and positive reinforcement. With involved parenting, genuine compliments, and the power of positive affirmations, you can help your teen develop a strong sense of self-worth and empower them to thrive.

Remember: You play a vital role in shaping your teen’s self-esteem. Your words and actions can have a lasting impact, so choose them wisely.

Effective Communication Strategies

Effective communication is key in maintaining a positive parent-teen relationship. It is essential for parents to establish open lines of communication and actively listen to their teenagers. By creating a safe and supportive environment, parents can encourage meaningful conversations that foster understanding and mutual respect.

One way to enhance communication is by showing empathy towards your teen’s experiences and emotions. Try to put yourself in their shoes and validate their feelings. This will help them feel understood and more likely to open up to you.

Another effective strategy is to talk to your teen daily, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Regular communication shows them that you are available and interested in their lives. It also provides an opportunity to address any concerns or issues that may arise.

Creating opportunities for meaningful conversations is crucial. This can be done by participating in activities together, such as going for a walk or cooking a meal. By engaging in shared experiences, you can foster a deeper connection and encourage open dialogue.

Remember, effective communication is a two-way street. Encourage your teen to express their thoughts and opinions, and be receptive to their ideas. By fostering open communication, you can strengthen your relationship and navigate the challenges of the teenage years together.

“Communication is the key that unlocks the door to your teen’s world.” – Unknown

Boundaries and expectations should be established, while allowing teens to have a say in decision-making. This balance is crucial in fostering a healthy and respectful parent-teen relationship. By setting clear limits, parents can provide the structure and guidance that teenagers need while still respecting their growing need for independence.

In order to establish effective boundaries, it’s important for parents to engage in open and honest conversations with their teens. This allows them to understand their teen’s perspective and concerns, fostering a sense of trust and cooperation. By involving teens in the decision-making process, parents can empower them to take ownership of their choices and actions.

One effective strategy for setting boundaries is to establish family rules that are mutually agreed upon. By involving teens in the creation of these rules, parents can ensure that they are fair and reasonable. This not only encourages accountability and responsibility but also teaches teens valuable life skills such as negotiation, compromise, and problem-solving.

To further reinforce boundaries, parents can utilize meaningful consequences. When a teen crosses a established limit, it’s important for parents to follow through with appropriate consequences that are consistent and related to the behavior. This helps teens understand the importance of respecting boundaries and the consequences of their actions.

Quotable:

“Establishing boundaries allows parents to guide their teens while still respecting their growing need for independence.” – Parenting Expert

By establishing boundaries and expectations, parents can create a supportive and nurturing environment for their teens. It provides them with the necessary structure and guidance while still allowing them to grow and make their own decisions. This balanced approach to parenting can lead to healthier communication, increased self-confidence, and ultimately, happier and more successful teenagers.

Encouraging Healthy Habits

Encouraging healthy habits is crucial during the teenage years. As teens navigate the challenges of adolescence, it becomes even more important for parents to prioritize their well-being. By promoting good self-care and open communication, parents can help their teens establish lifelong habits that will benefit them both mentally and physically.

One effective way to encourage healthy habits is by eating meals together as a family. Research has shown that regular family meals can have numerous positive effects on teenagers, including improved nutrition, better academic performance, and reduced risk of developing unhealthy behaviors such as substance abuse. Gathering around the table provides an opportunity for parents to model healthy eating habits and engage in meaningful conversations, strengthening the parent-teen bond.

Another crucial aspect of fostering healthy habits is promoting good self-care. Encouraging teens to prioritize adequate sleep, exercise, and stress management can contribute to their overall well-being. Parents can lead by example, emphasizing the importance of self-care and providing support and guidance to help their teens establish healthy routines. By engaging in activities that promote relaxation and stress reduction, such as practicing mindfulness or participating in hobbies, parents can show their teens the value of taking care of both their physical and mental health.

To ensure open communication about healthy habits, it is important for parents to create a safe and non-judgmental environment. By actively listening and showing empathy, parents can establish trust and encourage their teens to express their needs and concerns. This open line of communication allows parents to provide guidance and information on topics such as nutrition, exercise, and mental health. Through meaningful conversations, parents can help their teens develop a positive relationship with their own bodies and make informed choices that support their well-being.

In summary, encouraging healthy habits is crucial for teenagers. By eating meals together, promoting good self-care, and maintaining open lines of communication, parents can help their teens establish lifelong habits that support their physical and mental well-being. Creating a nurturing environment and engaging in meaningful conversations can contribute to stronger parent-teen relationships and foster a positive sense of self. By prioritizing healthy habits, parents can set their teens on a path towards a happier and more successful future.

It’s important for parents to stay involved and ensure their teen’s safety. Parenting during the teenage years can be a challenging time, as teens become more independent and start exploring their own identities. However, maintaining a strong parent-teen relationship is crucial for their well-being.

A key aspect of ensuring teen safety is open communication. Parents should make an effort to talk to their teens on a daily basis, asking about their day, their friends, and any concerns they may have. By actively listening and showing empathy, parents can create a safe space for their teens to express themselves.

Setting clear boundaries and expectations is also important for teen safety. By establishing family rules and discussing them with their teens, parents can help guide their decision-making process and promote responsible behavior. While it’s important to give teens some autonomy, it’s equally important to have clear limits in place to ensure their safety.

Teen Safety Strategies

To further enhance teen safety, parents can consider implementing the following strategies:

• Know their friends: Get to know your teen’s friends and communicate with other parents. Building a network of trusted adults can provide additional support and supervision.
• Monitor online activity: With the increasing use of technology, it’s essential to be aware of your teen’s online presence. Regularly check their social media accounts and have open conversations about internet safety.
• Teach responsible decision-making: Help your teen understand the consequences of their actions and encourage them to make thoughtful choices. By discussing potential risks and weighing the pros and cons, they can develop critical thinking skills.

By staying involved, establishing clear boundaries, and promoting open communication, parents can ensure the safety of their teenagers. Remember, strong parent-teen relationships are the foundation for happier and more successful teens.

Navigating Peer Pressure and Decision-Making

Helping teens navigate peer pressure and make good decisions is crucial during the teenage years. As adolescents strive to establish their own identity and gain independence, they often face various influences that can affect their choices. By equipping them with the necessary skills and providing a supportive environment, parents can empower their teens to make positive decisions that align with their values and aspirations.

One effective strategy is to encourage open communication and active listening. By fostering an environment where teens feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns, parents can gain insights into their experiences and offer guidance when needed. Empathy is also important, as it helps parents understand the pressures and challenges their teen may face. This empathetic approach allows for meaningful conversations that can help teens weigh the consequences of their actions and make informed choices.

Another important aspect of helping teens navigate peer pressure and decision-making is supporting their individuality and fostering a strong sense of self. Encouraging them to embrace their own identity and values empowers them to make choices that are authentic to who they are. It’s important for parents to have honest conversations about the potential risks and benefits of various decisions, while respecting their teen’s autonomy and allowing them to take ownership of their choices.

Ultimately, by providing guidance, fostering open communication, and supporting their teen’s individuality, parents can play a pivotal role in helping their teens navigate peer pressure and make decisions that contribute to their personal growth and well-being.

• Helping teens navigate peer pressure and make good decisions is crucial during the teenage years.
• Encouraging open communication, active listening, and empathy can foster meaningful conversations and help teens consider the consequences of their choices.
• Supporting their individuality and autonomy while providing guidance allows teens to make authentic decisions aligned with their own values.

Dealing with Difficult Behavior

Dealing with difficult behavior is a common challenge during the teenage years. As adolescents navigate their way through this period of self-discovery and growth, they may exhibit behaviors that are frustrating or challenging for parents to handle. However, with the right strategies and a compassionate approach, parents can effectively address these behaviors and guide their teens towards more positive choices.

One important strategy is to implement related consequences. It’s crucial for teens to understand that their actions have consequences, both positive and negative. By establishing clear expectations and consequences for behavior, parents can help their teens develop a sense of responsibility and accountability. For example, if a teenager consistently breaks curfew, a related consequence might be temporarily reducing their social privileges. This approach teaches them the importance of respecting boundaries and making responsible decisions.

Another difficult behavior that parents often encounter is temper tantrums. These outbursts of anger or frustration can be overwhelming, but it’s important for parents to remain calm and empathetic. By acknowledging their teenager’s emotions and engaging in active listening, parents can validate their feelings and help them work through their emotions in a healthier way. Offering support and guidance during these challenging moments can strengthen the parent-teen bond and foster emotional growth.

Parents should also be aware of the difference between occasional bad behavior and the presence of ongoing behavioral issues that might require professional intervention. If a teenager consistently displays aggressive, destructive, or harmful behavior, it’s important to seek help from a qualified professional, such as a therapist or counselor. They can provide valuable guidance and assistance in addressing these more serious challenges.

Dealing with difficult behavior during the teenage years is not an easy task, but with patience, understanding, and a proactive approach, parents can effectively navigate these challenges. By setting clear expectations, implementing related consequences, and maintaining open lines of communication, parents can guide their teens towards more positive and responsible behaviors, ultimately helping them develop into confident and well-adjusted young adults.

Encouraging Positive Behaviors

Encouraging positive behaviors is essential for teens’ growth and development. It not only helps them build strong character traits but also prepares them for future success. There are various ways parents can promote positive behaviors in their teenagers, such as teaching important life lessons and engaging in meaningful conversations.

One effective approach is to create a list of values and discuss them with your teen. These values can include honesty, respect, kindness, and responsibility. By having open conversations about these values and their significance, you can help your teenager understand the importance of embodying these behaviors in their daily lives.

Another valuable strategy is to lead by example. Teenagers are highly influenced by their parents’ actions and behaviors. By demonstrating positive behaviors yourself, such as being respectful, showing empathy, and practicing good communication skills, you provide a strong role model for your teenager to emulate.

“Encouraging positive behaviors not only benefits teenagers in their current lives but also prepares them for a successful future.” – Parenting Expert

Lastly, it is important to recognize and reinforce positive behaviors when you see them. Use genuine compliments and praise to acknowledge your teenager’s efforts and achievements. This not only boosts their self-esteem but also reinforces the importance of those positive behaviors.

Encouraging positive behaviors in teenagers may require patience and consistency, but the long-term benefits are invaluable. By fostering a positive environment and actively promoting positive behaviors, parents can help shape their teenagers into responsible, compassionate, and successful individuals.

Embracing teens’ independence and autonomy is crucial for their personal growth. As teenagers navigate their way through adolescence, it is natural for them to seek more independence and autonomy. Encouraging their freedom of choice and decision-making can empower them to develop their own identities and build a sense of self-confidence.

Respecting privacy is an essential aspect of supporting teens’ independence. While it is important to stay involved in their lives, giving them space to explore their own interests and navigate challenges independently is equally vital. Trusting their judgment and allowing them to make their own decisions, within reasonable boundaries, can foster their sense of responsibility and prepare them for the future.

One effective way to promote independence is by involving teens in setting the rules and boundaries of the household. This collaborative approach not only gives them a sense of ownership but also teaches them valuable negotiation and compromise skills. By including them in the decision-making process, parents can ensure that the rules align with the family’s values while still acknowledging and respecting their teens’ perspectives.

Embracing teens’ independence and autonomy requires patience and understanding. While we may feel the urge to protect them at all costs, we must remember that allowing them to make mistakes and learn from them is a crucial part of their growth. By providing guidance and support rather than control, parents can empower their teens to develop their own unique identities and become responsible, self-reliant individuals.

Conclusion

Strong parent-teen relationships can lead to happier and more successful teenagers. Parenting during the teenage years can be challenging, but there are crucial positive parenting strategies that can help. Maintaining a strong parent-teen relationship is important, even as teens seek more independence. Spending quality time together, showing interest in their activities, and respecting their privacy can help foster a positive connection.

Promoting self-esteem in teens is also crucial. Parents should be involved in their teens’ lives, offering genuine compliments and support. By nurturing their self-esteem, parents can empower their teenagers to develop a strong sense of self-confidence and resilience.

Effective communication is key in building strong parent-teen relationships. Active listening and empathy play a major role in understanding their perspectives and validating their emotions. Parents should make an effort to talk to their teens daily and create opportunities for meaningful conversations.

Establishing boundaries and expectations is essential for teenagers’ growth and development. While it is important to allow teens to have a say in decision-making, clear limits and family rules should be set to provide structure and guidance.

Encouraging healthy habits, such as eating meals together, promoting good self-care, and maintaining open lines of communication, can have a positive impact on teens’ overall well-being. It also shows them that their parents care about their physical and emotional health.

Ensuring teen safety is of utmost importance. Parents should stay involved in their teens’ lives, being vigilant of potential risks and providing guidance to help them make safe choices.

When navigating peer pressure and decision-making, parents should empower their teens to make good choices aligned with their own identity. By fostering open and non-judgmental conversations, parents can equip their teenagers with the necessary tools to navigate these challenges.

Dealing with difficult behavior requires a proactive and understanding approach. Implementing related consequences and addressing issues such as temper tantrums and bad behavior can help teenagers learn valuable life lessons and develop healthier habits.

By embracing their teens’ independence and autonomy, parents can encourage their growth and development. Allowing them to make their own decisions, while providing guidance and support, helps teenagers gain confidence in their abilities and establish their own identity.

In conclusion, positive parenting strategies for the teenage years are crucial for raising happier and more successful teenagers. Building strong parent-teen relationships, promoting self-esteem, effective communication, establishing boundaries, encouraging healthy habits, ensuring teen safety, navigating peer pressure, dealing with difficult behavior, and embracing independence and autonomy all contribute to the well-being and development of teenagers. With these strategies, parents can support their teens in becoming confident, resilient individuals ready to face the challenges of adulthood.

FAQ

Q: What are some positive parenting strategies for the teenage years?

A: Maintaining a strong parent-teen relationship, promoting self-esteem, effective communication, establishing boundaries and expectations, encouraging healthy habits, ensuring teen safety, navigating peer pressure and decision-making, dealing with difficult behavior, encouraging positive behaviors, and embracing independence and autonomy.

Q: How can I build a strong parent-teen relationship?

A: Spend quality time together, maintain open lines of communication, show interest in their activities, respect their privacy, and be supportive.

Q: How can I promote self-esteem in my teen?

A: Be involved and show genuine compliments and support.

Q: What are some effective communication strategies for parent-teen relationships?

A: Practice active listening, show empathy, talk to your teen daily, and create opportunities for meaningful conversations.

Q: How can I establish boundaries and expectations with my teen?

A: Involve them in decision-making, set clear limits, and establish family rules.

Q: How can I encourage healthy habits in my teen?

A: Eat meals together, encourage good self-care, and maintain open lines of communication.

Q: How can I ensure my teen’s safety?

A: Stay involved in their lives, be vigilant, and prioritize their safety.

Q: How can I help my teen navigate peer pressure and make good decisions?

A: Encourage them to stay true to their own identity, provide guidance, and promote open communication.

Q: How can I deal with difficult behavior in my teen?

A: Implement related consequences, address issues such as temper tantrums and bad behavior, and seek professional help if needed.

Q: How can I encourage positive behaviors in my teen?

A: Teach life lessons, engage in meaningful conversations, and provide positive reinforcement.

Q: How can I embrace my teen’s independence and autonomy?

A: Allow them to make their own decisions, respect their privacy, and support their journey towards independence.

I have 2 teen daughters who have struggled with gender identity. My oldest was labeling herself non-binary and frequently changing the pronouns she wants to be called, and my middle daughter previously identified as a boy. So how can I help my teen with gender identity issues?

Parents can help teens with gender identity issues by:

1. Listen without judgment
2. Love them unconditionally
3. Providing them the facts about gender that they likely aren’t hearing on social media or from friends
4. Get them counseling
5. Be aware of signs of depression or possible self-harm

Parents should not blindly accept a change of gender, but also shouldn’t force them to be a certain way (and risk alienating them)

But it’s not really nearly that simple.

So in this article, we’ll look at the facts surrounding true gender dysphoria. And we’ll see how that differs from what’s really going on with today’s youth, which to me, seem obsessed with labels about both gender and sexual orientation.

And we’ll talk about some proven do’s and don’ts regarding what to do if this is happening in your house.

Think your daughter’s confusion is a sign of a bigger problem?

While gender confusion and self-discovery are common for teens, sometimes it’s something more and they may need professional help to work through this challenging time.

Luckily the folks over at PrideCounseling work with thousands of kids just like yours and mine.

Get matched with licensed therapists who specialize in working with teens who identify as part of the LGTBQ+ community. Let them know of the issues and signs you’re seeing. Once you approve, you connect them with your child for online therapy they can access right on a smartphone or computer.

And, of course, they’ll let you know if they sense anything serious.

CLICK HERE to check out PrideCounseling and see if it might be worth considering for your family’s peace of mind!

Is it normal for teens to struggle with gender identity?

It is becoming more and more popular and common for tweens and teens in recent years to obsess with gender labels and switch gender identities or pronouns. That doesn’t mean it’s normal, but it has become commonplace.

My teen daughters have dozens of friends and acquaintances collectively.

And I bet that easily 60% of them (all girls) now claim to be one of the following:

• Gender fluid (they feel free to identify as one gender or the other at will)
• Non-binary (they believe they are neither 100% one gender nor the other)
• Agender (they don’t identify as any gender)
• Cisgender (a person who identifies with the gender of their birth)
• Demigender (only partially identify with one particular gender)

And a host of other made-up terms.

If I sound frustrated, it’s because I am. Gender isn’t something we choose. It’s something we are born with. And I don’t care if a man wants to love another man or a woman, or the same for women. But I don’t just get to wake up one day, switch my pronouns to they/them, and call myself gender fluid on a whim.

I’m a guy. And nothing I say will change that.

That by no means is to claim that there aren’t people out there with true gender dysphoria. There most definitely are people out there who were born into the body of one gender who truly feel the opposite gender on the inside.

But the actual instances of that are much fewer and further between than what we are currently seeing with teens at large today. More of that below.

Finally got my Born This Way: 10th Anniversary CD! ????❤️‍???????? pic.twitter.com/rrs1vvp42Y

— Anthony ???? Lady Gaga News (@antpats2) September 3, 2021

Can non-binary be a phase?

Non-binary is a made-up term and has been discredited by the man who first claimed to be non-binary. So it is most definitely a phase and a trend that is not rooted in any real science or medical issue and can very much be a phase.

The danger, of course, is that the longer a teen (or adult) holds on to an image, the more likely it is to stick.

As they say, “fake it, ’till you make it”. And if you do something long enough, eventually you’ll believe it and won’t know the difference.

I had an interesting discussion the other day with my oldest daughter.

She was criticizing a woman named Oli London who identifies as “nonbinary Korean”. This woman even went so far as to have plastic surgery to make her look Korean. But she was born in England and is not of Korean ancestry.

My daughter was criticizing her claiming that “you can’t just decide you want to be a different race than what you were born”. I, of course, reminded her that really wasn’t all that different than deciding to be a different gender than what you were born.

I didn’t sway her with my logic, but it did give her something to think about.

Of course, going back a few years, we also had the case of Rachel Dolezal, the ex-NAACP leader who was white but “identified” as black.

They even created the term “transracial” to describe her.

In short, we are all born a certain way, and while we can empathize with a culture, race, gender that is different from our own, and even move to an area to indoctrinate ourselves with that cultural aspect, we don’t get to just switch from what we were born just because we feel like it.

Like Lady Gaga says we were “born this way”.

That doesn’t mean a man or woman can’t be androgynous or fluctuate their gender expression. But that doesn’t actually change their biological gender.

Is gender a social construct?

“The conservative Family Research Council (FRC) is urging parents across the country to keep their kids home on Thursday, Feb. 27, a day that pro-LGBT activists and teachers will use to read pro-transgender books to children in some schools and libraries”https://t.co/m00zkBJd5n

— James Shupe (Formerly Jamie Shupe) (@NotableDesister) February 27, 2020

So who invented the term non-binary?

James Shupe was the first person to use the term non-binary. He was physically and sexually abused as a child and first came out as trans in 2013, then non-binary in 2016. However, by 2019 he reverted to being male and has since called the term non-binary “psychologically harmful legal fiction.”

So non-binary was a term made up by a guy who was sexually abused and very confused.

It’s not a real term used by science or medicine. Shupe claims he was experiencing psychosis when he opted for the term non-binary and later felt he was pushed and encouraged by mental health professionals who were too concerned about political correctness and LGTBQ backlash if they didn’t 100% support his psychotic views.

So make no mistake. The guy who made up the term is very much opposed to the concept. And we, as caring parents, should be too. Read his whole story, in his own words, here.

That doesn’t mean we can’t love our kids, even if they do identify as non-binary.

But we can still love them and support them and disagree with them. And as parents, as always, it’s our job to educate them.

They may not agree with us. And they may even get mad or think we’re somehow bigoted (which we are not) for not buying into a made-up term that has since been disowned by the guy who created it.

But we can’t just hide our heads in the sand out of political correctness either.

What does it mean if my daughter is non-binary?

A daughter who is non-binary believes she is neither 100% male nor female. Technically it is part of the larger category of transgendered, although there are many trans people and non-binary people who reject that.

So it may mean that she sometimes dresses like a boy (not unlike what we called tomboys when I was a kid).

But other times, like my oldest daughter, she may wear fake eyelashes and tons of makeup. So it’s really all over the place. She may also reject the pronouns of her and she, favoring instead they/them.

Of course, some non-binary kids want hormone treatment and puberty blockers to chemically alter their feelings about their sexual identity.

As parents, it’s critical that we avoid doing that. Once they turn 18, they’re free to pursue that. But really up until the age of 25, their brains are still very much developing, and it’s tragic to alter teens’ natural development prior to that with chemicals or gender reassignment surgery.

But some misguided parents still persist in doing that.

I vote BTS (@BTS_twt) for #ArtistoftheSummer @965TDY pic.twitter.com/0W38eaO80O

— Lachimolala⁷/~???????????? (@_Jung_yoon_) July 25, 2021

Why are there so many labels now for gender and sexual orientation?

Tweens and teens are obsessed with labels for gender and sexual orientation. Essentially, they are coming up with labels for every possible variation that can be thought of, as it’s a way of feeling a part of something rather than feeling alone and isolated with the normal teenage hormonal confusion.

But in the days and years following 2020 and the lockdowns, it is also a way of controlling something when so much about our kids’ lives was totally out of their control.

I already covered some of the possible gender terms above kids these days are using. But again, those are:

• Gender fluid (they feel free to identify as one gender or the other at will)
• Non-binary (they believe they are neither 100% one gender nor the other)
• Agender (they don’t identify as any gender)
• Cisgender (a person who identifies with the gender of their birth)
• Demigender (only partially identify with one particular gender)

And here are some of the sexual orientation terms also being thrown around:

• Asexual (not being sexually attracted to anyone of any gender)
• Bisexual (being attracted to both men and women)
• Gay (men who are attracted only to other men)
• Lesbian (women who are attracted only to other women)
• Pansexual (kind of like bisexual, but they don’t believe there are just 2 genders)
• Questioning (those who are undecided about their sexuality)

It’s enough to make your head spin!

Of course, when I was a kid there were men and women and gays, lesbians, and straights. That’s it. 5 terms. I didn’t know about trans back then, although certainly true gender dysphoria and hermaphrodites were around.

But the only excuse for how many labels there are today and how much the media and social media, in particular, is pushing this agenda is the obvious goal of destroying the so-called nuclear family.

That puts us as caring parents, in a crucial position. And we can’t just sit back and hope for the best.

Gender euphoria: being stared at with disgust/and or confusion while out in public #nonbinary pic.twitter.com/vtw0CV5YyL

— aspiring malewife (@indrid_rat) July 19, 2021

Can gender confusion be a phase?

Gender confusion can be a phase unless it is a case of true gender dysphoria or hermaphroditism. The media, social media, and peer pressure at school all have an impact on teens’ ability to see themselves and their own views on gender and sexuality.

So it can very much be a phase during the teenage years that most young people will grow out of.

But as I said above, there’s also the issue of doing it for so long they don’t know how to go back without disappointing their friend group or feeling like a phony.

So we as parents have a crucial role.

We have to support them and love them unconditionally. But we also owe them to always be honest with them and to tell the truth. Just like when they were 4 and we worked with them on reading and spelling, we still have to educate them.

They just talk back more now. But we can’t stop just because it gets difficult or unpopular.

What is gender identity disorder?

What are the signs of gender dysphoria?

How many people have gender dysphoria?

Approximately 1.7 million people on Earth have gender dysphoria. For men, that is 1 person out of every 3,800 people, and for women, that is 1 person out of every 5,200 people.

(source)

It’s also worth noting that that same study showed a 20% increase between 1980 and 2015.

But what it does mean, given most of us know maybe 100 people, is that no one reading this should know more than 1 person with a true gender identity issue.

And yet among my daughter’s friends, I can count a dozen probably.

That tells me that something else is going on aside from true gender dysphoria. It’s also interesting that the study showed a 20% increase from 1980. That’s not in total numbers which would make sense as the overall population increases.

No, that’s a 20% increase in the percentage of people who have it.

So why is it increasing rapidly? Well, as with autism rates, we don’t have a clear answer. We just have questions and conspiracy theories.

But what is true and undisputed is that our exposure to EDCs (Endocrine-disrupting chemicals) has risen significantly.

And a study published by the US National Library of Medicine showed that “high-level fetal exposures to known EDCs . . . is associated with gender-related effects”.

They go on to note that:

“These chemicals mimic hormones, and can disrupt differentiation and development in a wide variety of ways, by duplicating, exaggerating, blocking, or altering hormonal responses.”

And those exposed to “pesticides including DDT and DDE—have been shown to have been “feminized.”

For me, as someone who worked for 20+ years for Whole Foods Market and is naturally skeptical against chemicals and pesticides, this isn’t surprising.

But I bet it is for many of you. And remember, that study is published on a US government website; not some backwoods conspiracy nut’s website.

Join Dr. Serena H Chen (@drserenahchen) & Dr. Barry Perlman Tuesday, July 27 at 4:30pm ET on IG Live. They will discuss Environmental Toxins & Fertility surrounding endocrine-disrupting chemicals, as well as the risks, effects on female reproduction & what products contain EDCs. pic.twitter.com/pesCcTYXKo

— IRMS (@IVF_IRMS) July 22, 2021

So what are EDC’s?

According to hormone.org, “Some EDCs act like “hormone mimics” and trick our body into thinking that they are hormones, while other EDCs block natural hormones from doing their job.”

Common places to find it which make their way into households every day include:

• DDT (pesticide banned worldwide in 2004)
• Glyphosate (sprayed on non-organic wheat)
• Atrazine (sprayed on non-organic corn)
• BPA (used in plastic wrap and plastic bottles)
• Perfluorochemicals (used in microwave popcorn bags)
• Triclosan (used in some toothpaste and anti-bacterial soap)
• Phthalates (used in body care products and sunscreen)

So as you can see, many of us use these products every day.

But what is the role, if any, these products and our increasing use of them, have on the fact that our teens are now more and more obsessed with gender labels, changing genders, and altering their natural biological existence?

Again, questions but no real answers. But good food for thought.

????????????????‍????THE DEVELOPMENT OF OUR SONS SEXUALITY IS BEAUTIFULLY COMPLEX. However, one of the greatest disservices we do to our children today is slapping a simple answer on a complicated issue. https://t.co/tuaYvHyr7S pic.twitter.com/cTkTB25srr

— Meg Meeker, M.D. (@megmeekermd) August 10, 2019

Is gender dysphoria the same as gender confusion?

No. Gender dysphoria is not the same as gender confusion. Gender dysphoria refers to a medical condition where someone was truly born in the biological body of the opposite gender from what they truly feel. Gender confusion can come about from peer pressure, sexual assault or trauma, and social media pressure and can diminish over time.

So in short, someone with true gender dysphoria may feel from a very young age that they were supposed to be the opposite gender. And while they may self-medicate in adulthood to numb their pain, they don’t ever stop feeling that way.

And many, but not all, will take hormones and/or seek surgical treatments to transition to the gender they believe themselves to be.

Gender confusion, which is what is affecting many teens and tweens right now is more about wanting to fit in, not wanting to be ostracized, and buying into an agenda being pushed by the media and social media.

And while not all will grow out of this “phase”, many will.

Final thoughts

Ultimately I love my daughters no matter what they want to be called.

And no label or pronoun is going to change that. That being said, they are biologically girls. And unless someone was born intersex (what used to be called hermaphrodite), where portions of both sex organs are present at birth or has true gender dysphoria, gender is not actually fluid and you are either a boy or a girl.

If someone wants to call themselves the other, hey; it’s a free country.

But that doesn’t change reality. And I think when we as parents and the media try and alter that reality for the sake of political correctness, we’re really doing our kids a huge disservice.

We can hold to what we know is true and love our kids unconditionally at the same time. Remember, unconditional love doesn’t mean we have to agree with everything they believe.

Think your daughter’s confusion is a sign of a bigger problem?

While gender confusion and self-discovery are common for teens, sometimes it’s something more and they may need professional help to work through this challenging time.

Luckily the folks over at PrideCounseling work with thousands of kids just like yours and mine.

Get matched with licensed therapists who specialize in working with teens who identify as part of the LGTBQ+ community. Let them know of the issues and signs you’re seeing. Once you approve, you connect them with your child for online therapy they can access right on a smartphone or computer.

And, of course, they’ll let you know if they sense anything serious.

CLICK HERE to check out PrideCounseling and see if it might be worth considering for your family’s peace of mind!

Being the parent of a teen can be challenging at times. Teens like to test boundaries and rebel a little. Sometimes that rebellion can include sneaking out of the house. This has some parents asking, how do I stop my daughter from sneaking out?

To stop your daughter from sneaking out, start by calmly talking to her about why she is sneaking out. Also, let her know the dangers of sneaking out. As a last resort, place alarms on all exterior doors to alert you anytime they are opened once the alarm is set.

While it can be normal for kids to sneak out of the house, it can be really dangerous. 

I know. My second daughter was sexually assaulted in 2020 after an episode of sneaking out. As a Dad, there’s nothing scarier than that. And, of course, some predators wouldn’t just stop at sexual assault. So in many ways, she got lucky.

So here, we’ll look at why kids sneak out, but we’ll also look realistically at the dangers. And lastly, we’ll look at both verbal and technical ways to prevent it and curb this behavior.

Just keep reading!

Is it normal for kids to sneak out of the house?

Rebelling and sneaking out of the house is a normal part of growing up. However, the world is a more dangerous place than it was for previous generations, and smartphones and social media have made sneaking out less innocent than they used to be.

Sneaking out at night almost seems to be a right of passage as a teen. 

Just about every young adult book, movie, and TV show has characters that sneak out of the house for whatever reason. It can be anywhere from starting trouble to simply seeing if you can get away with it. 

I started doing it when I was 15.

But that was also in the late 70s and early 80s. Not that there weren’t dangers, but the world was a different place then. And not to be sexist, but some of those dangers are greater for teenage girls than it is for boys.

So just because it can be a normal part of being a teen doesn’t mean you want your kid doing it.

As the parent of a teen, it’s your job to keep your child safe. It’s your job to guide her towards making the right decision and then helping her learn from her mistakes. 

You’ve probably noticed that not only is your teen more secretive as she gets older, but she is moodier, quieter, and brooding.

School is getting more challenging, and friendships are more complicated. Some worry and anxiety are normal. If your daughter’s anxiety doesn’t seem to ease up, she may have an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety disorders should be treated by a medical professional. To read more about anxiety in teens, read this recent article. What really surprised me was how much more likely it is now for teenage girls to develop anxiety disorders than it was just a decade ago.

Just click the link to read it on my site.

Parental tip for you this Friday. If you keep catching your teenager sneaking out at night, build a chimney over their window! Just remember to use our DuraLiner® when you’re relining so we all win! #BadBuildFriday #parenting #tips #winwin #DuraVent pic.twitter.com/O8IGUfpyNz

— DuraVent (@duravent) January 8, 2021

What to do when you catch your teenage daughter sneaking out?

When a teenage daughter is sneaking out, do not take it personally. Stay calm and focus on the behavior. Talk to her openly and honestly about why she is doing it and why it is upsetting for you. But do have consequences for any bad behavior, such as losing her phone for a week or more.

Ultimately, she may just be bored or be feeling isolated.

While you may want to yell and impose harsh punishments, that won’t solve the problem. In fact, it may push your daughter further away. It may encourage her to become sneakier and more secretive.

This kind of parenting is called authoritarian parenting.

The best parenting styles help prepare kids for the real world. They foster integrity, kindness, and honor. Authoritarian parenting does none of those things.

To read more about the detrimental effects of authoritarian parenting, check out this recent article.

Just click the link to read it on my site.

Instead, get to the root of the problem by having a serious conversation with your daughter. Sneaking out can be incredibly dangerous.

If she’s seeking more freedom, find ways to help her get it in a way that isn’t so dangerous.

If she wants to see a boy, find out who the boy is and why she feels like she needs to sneak out to see him. Get to the root of the problem and try to solve it together.

How would u handle a teenager who was sneaking out! Find out at Vatican In Exile. https://t.co/4ddCDgkxyi pic.twitter.com/ccxjIJcAa6

— #Vatican in Exile (@Francis5Domini3) May 11, 2016

Why does my daughter keep lying to me?

Kids lie for all kinds of reasons. From anxiety to ADHD, even lack of confidence can lead to lying. They may also be afraid of their parents or consequences. But the more open and honest the parent is with the child, the more likely the child will be that way in return.

Kids with ADHD will often lie due to impulsivity. They simply speak before they think. Then, when they’ve realized that they may have lied, they feel like they can’t backtrack to get out of it.

Sometimes kids can really believe they have done something and tell what may sound like a lie. But really, they just forgot.

For example, if your daughter says she did her homework but forgot she had extra work to do, it can sound like she lied, even though she really just forgot. 

Sometimes, kids with anxiety or depression will try to minimize their issues to take the focus off of themselves. They don’t want people worrying about them.

Talk to your daughter about her lying and try to get to the root of it.

By being rational and focusing on the issue itself, you’re engaging in a parenting style known as authoritative parenting.

Authoritative parenting encourages self-will and guides children to learn from their decisions. This is unlike authoritarian parenting, which is a “my way or the highway” type of parenting.

To read more about the different types of parenting styles, check out this recent article.

Just click the link to read it on my site.

By learning about our parenting styles, we can learn where we are and what areas we may want to grow in.

A good idea for your front door when you don’t want your teenager sneaking out! pic.twitter.com/GQ86eUVfJ0

— DMD Window & Door (@DMDWindowDoor) May 7, 2016

What are the dangers teenage girls face by sneaking out?

Teenage girls who sneak out risk sexual assault or being pressured to use drugs or alcohol. 1 in 9 girls experience sexual assault and 82% of all victims under 18 are girls.

(source)

But first and foremost, if you don’t know where your kid is, you won’t know that they need your help when they’re in trouble. 

Whether you have a son or a daughter, it’s important to know where they are and who they are hanging out with. If your daughter sneaks out at night, not only do you not know where she is, but you don’t know who she’s with, either. 

It may be innocent and she’s just testing boundaries. Or she could be involved with more serious activities. 

The bottom line, though, is that if she needs you, and can’t for whatever reason, reach out to you, you won’t know until morning when you find her empty bed. 

In terms of drinking, drugs, and physical or sexual abuse, sneaking out is often an element. If your daughter is involved with any of these things, you may not know for hours. 

Those hours could mean the difference between life and death. 

Daughter keeps sneaking out of the house https://t.co/LNPaJqEjrj pic.twitter.com/wSwb8EtgZy

— Richard Pryor (@rpryor2) December 20, 2019

What is the best self-installed alarm system on Amazon?

The Ring Alarm system is the best and easiest way to install a full-fledged alarm system without hiring a professional. And the paid monitoring is optional and the system functions quite well without it.

CLICK HERE to see it on Amazon.

An easy, inexpensive way to prevent sneaking out is to install an alarm system. If nothing else, it’ll wake you up when your daughter attempts to leave. 

The Ring Alarm System includes a base station, keypad, four contact sensors, a motion detector, and a range extender.

The small kit is good for smaller spaces, like apartments or condos. The medium kit is great for 1-2 bedroom homes and will cover about 1,000 to 2,000 square feet.

If that isn’t enough, the system offers additional components to fit your needs. Or you can simply purchase the 14-piece kit, which is suitable for 2-4 bedroom houses. 

It offers optional 24/7 professional monitoring, emergency police, fire, and medical response. But you don’t have to pay for that, and you can do a lot just with the system by itself.

You can get mobile notifications too, so if your daughter sneaks out when you’re not home, you’ll know.

The best part is that anyone can install and set up the alarm system. 

All you have to do is plug in the base station, connect to wi-fi, and place the sensors where you think they need to be placed.

Alexa users can use their voices to arm and disarm the system. You can even use Alexa to request emergency responders.

The system has all sorts of modern upgrades. You can get indoor cameras and video doorbells, all at a fraction of the cost of commercially installed alarm systems.

CLICK HERE to see it on Amazon.

Final Thoughts

Kids sneak out for all sorts of reasons. Typically it involves testing boundaries and trying to get some sort of independence.

But it can definitely be more sinister than that.

It’s important to put a stop to it as soon as possible. Start by finding out why your daughter is sneaking out and work together to find a solution to end it.

Think your daughter’s sneaking out is a sign of a bigger problem?

While sneaking out has been a rite of passage for teens for decades, sometimes it’s something more and they may need professional help to work through this challenging time.

Luckily the folks over at TeenCounseling work with thousands of kids just like yours and mine.

Get matched with licensed therapists who specialize in working with teens. Let them know of the issues and signs you’re seeing. Once you approve, you connect them with your child for online therapy they can access right on a smartphone or computer.

And, of course, they’ll let you know if they sense anything serious.

CLICK HERE to check out TeenCounseling and see if it might be worth considering for your family’s peace of mind!