Teens & The Changing World in Which They Live
- Chris Theisen
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
It happens about once per week. I find myself driving past the local high school on my way to wherever it is I happen to be going. As I slowly pass the school (going no more than 20 MPH, of course) I can’t help but reflect on how much different things appear to be now compared to when I was in high school.
Back when I was in high school…
We didn’t have cell phones or the internet. We used payphones and the library.
We didn’t dye our hair black and (apparently) avoid sunlight. We wore silly surfer shorts and took pride in our healthy tans (which usually started off as sunburns!).
We didn’t worry about school shootings or propositions from promiscuous teachers. Those things were unheard of.
We weren’t concerned with terrorism or war. Those were just things that "happened in the Middle East."
On-line predators were basically non-existent because, well, so was the internet.
Musicians used to sing about having fun and being in love. Today the airwaves are full of references to drugs, crime and misogyny.
Drugs and pornography were only available to teens that sought them out. Today, those things are so readily available that children and teens no longer need to seek them out.
It used to be shocking if someone brought a gun to school. Today, unfortunately, it is the norm in many schools.
Yup, times have really changed. Teens have a lot to deal with these days - as if there isn’t already enough going on in their lives.
Parents need to be “on top of it” if they expect to raise happy, healthy, and well-adjusted teens.
Here are a few things that parents can do:
Keep the lines of communication open. Talk often – but more importantly – LISTEN!
Raise a child that feels valued, respected, and loved.
Pay attention to what is going on in your child’s life. Ask questions.
Recognize the warning signs for drug/alcohol use, depression, and future violence. Take action, if necessary, rather than slipping into denial.
Encourage participation in extra-curricular activities.
Set reasonable limits and boundaries then enforce them in a fair manner.
SPEND TIME WITH YOUR TEEN.
Seek professional help for your teen if you think it is necessary.
There are no guaranteed formulas for raising a perfectly happy and balanced teenager. But following these principles gives parents a strong foundation—and their teens a better chance to thrive in a world that’s changing faster than ever.
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