Physical changes that occur during adolescence are rapid in both height and weight, and even in their brain activity. Chapter 8 talks about the physical and psychosocial development that occurs at the age of 12 and 20. Identity formation during this stage according to Erickson's theory strives to discover what makes them special and different. "The main task is to achieve a state of identity,something to which one strives,rather than a final, definitive identity."(Life Smart p.134). This is the period when teens identify their strength and weakness and determine the roles they can best play in their future. For this reason parent and care giver have a lot to do in giving support to the teens and helping them achieve their best. As a mother of three adult now, I remember what really help me through this stage in my children's life is listening to them and respecting their opinion and most importantly praying with, and for them. I made it a point of duty while my children was in high school to pray with each one of them before leaving home for school. Letting teens knows that we are there for them will not allows their peers to take control of their life.
Puberty which is the periods of hormone changes whereby sex hormones increases. In this stage adolescence develop their sexual, gender and ethnic identities. They become more importantly to their peers, a periods where they tends to face the treats of their peers and surroundings that can damage their well-being. Especially in the western world where everything is at the teens finger tips and they are expose to illegal drugs, cigarette smoking and sexually transmitted disease. The book talks about the role that family plays in the life of the teens, because the teens go through a lot of body image disturbance and pressure from peers. Support from parents especially mother is very crucial otherwise teens will not be able to adjust to all the changes. "while adolescents' relationship with both parents remain significant, mothers are generally perceived as more supportive than fathers. "(Life Smart p.195) Because of this critical periods parents should be aware and play an important role in their teens life. Teenagers need their parent support so they can achieve their best. Growing up in Nigeria, I remember how I was so close to my mother in some instances as in getting all my needs met but very distant in discussing some personal problems with her due to cultural reasons so I determined to be close to my children and allow them to freely discuss their struggle with me either academically or socially and they always have my acceptance.
It nice to hear of your experiences as a mother. During this phase kids really to go through some dramatic changes and it is important to be there for them. It is great that you pray with your kids. I remember my mom doing that for me and it was a really positive experience.
ReplyDeleteIt nice to hear of your experiences as a mother. During this phase kids really to go through some dramatic changes and it is important to be there for them. It is great that you pray with your kids. I remember my mom doing that for me and it was a really positive experience.
ReplyDeleteIt is heart-warming to know that your children are being raised in a Christian home at their most impressionable ages. Such a development augurs well for kids' wellbeing as they definitely would not stray away from morally upright behaviors. I also would dare say I have a Christian home but having to raise boys, it is a daunting task to get them going right all the way.
ReplyDeleteYou agree with the view that mothers are more supportive in raising kids than their fathers and mentioned that it is from puberty stage that parents should guide their kids more intimately lest they lose them to bad influences. I totally agree with you on that and I believe matters are helped very much if parents can provide lavishly and reasonably for their offspring in terms of life's necessities (food, shelter, comforts and what have you).
I was so eager to hear what other moms and our younger girls blogged about this week. I wanted to learn how other moms deal with their adolescents and hear how moms have inspired our younger single girls! Keeping open communication with your children is key. We pray in the car every morning and at night we pray specifically for them to be brave and courageous and to know how much God loves them and to love how He made them so special. great blog! Thanks for sharing your experiences.
ReplyDeleteYour quote,"Because of this critical periods parents should be aware and play an important role in their teens life" really hits the nail on the head. Critical periods occur in many different areas of development but adolescence is uniquely important in children developing who they are. Parents are always shaping their children but adolescence is a time where they is a greater impact due to their age and maturity. Also, thanks for sharing how one's culture and technology can sometimes influence parenting at this age.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your experience. I am agreed that you says about mom is always close to their children than father. When I was that age my mom always with me. Without asking anything she can understand what I need. Back to home town we don't have anybody to give adolescence about sex education. I remember when I was in science class one topic about sex, even our teacher separate boy and girls to teach about that topic.
ReplyDeleteI like how you said “Letting teens knows that we are there for them will not allows their peers to take control of their life.” Letting your kids know you are there for them is one of the most important things you can do as a parent. I grew up as you did, experiencing a close relationship with my Mom but was unable to talk about the really personal topics that mattered most to me at the time. It is important for anyone at any stage of their life to know they are understood and have someone who does care. Through all the egocentrism that comes with adolescence it is important to be an understanding and guiding adult.
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