Insecurity arises from the lack of confidence and feeds upon a weak character. Even the most confident and outspoken people have some things about themselves that they are not completely happy or satisfied.
During the teenage years, overcoming self-doubts is a major part of growing up and becoming adults. While insecurities affect every teenager, they manifest themselves differently and with varying intensity, depending on a person’s strength of character and environment.
Most teenagers don’t share or discuss their doubts with others. Being alone, rejected, not a part of the popular crew; having bad grades; making mistakes, failing to achieve something, and therefore, disappointing one’s parents, teachers, or oneself; having the “wrong kind of” body, wearing inappropriate clothes for his/her age and the like are just a few of the causes of self-doubts which could result to low self-confidence.
Helping children build self-confidence and instill a sense of self-worth from a young age is fundamental in fighting their insecurities later in life. Yet a teens’ self-confidence can be easily swayed, so even most confident teens need parental reassurance from time to time to help teenagers improve their self-esteem during adolescence, and also strengthen and maintain a positive relationship.
To understand and support a struggling child, you need to help them open up to you about things that worry them. Criticizing your kids for every petty detail won’t help. Be broad-minded so that they won’t be afraid of being judged and censured. In order to sustain a positive dynamic between you two, parents must maintain a positive outlook at all times.
If there is something troubling your kids, be sure to listen and try to understand the problem from their point of view and that you will offer constructive feedback. Do not be judgmental. Always offer a reassuring smile or advice.
When going through an anxiety, teens get easily overwhelmed by the simplest inconveniences. As parents, we need to ensure structure in our kids because it can bring certainty. It can give them something to rely and count on when everything else seems to be tumbling down.
The sense of achievement is crucial in building their self-confidence. Setting realistic goals can make a difference in your child’s attitude and outlook. Do not force your child to achieve more than he/she can. What’s important is that he/she tried her best. Your affirmation as a parent can help him/her boost his/her self-esteem.