Today's Tip for Families

[En español]

06-16-2021

Send Positive Messages to Your Teen

Research shows that when parents talk and listen, they can change their teens’ behavior.

Three kinds of messages have the greatest effect on what teens do:

  1. Optimistic messages. When teens get the message from their parents that they can’t do anything right, pretty soon they believe it. But when they hear that they can make good choices, they generally do. Does your teen have a tough choice to make? Remind him of times he chose well. Let him know you believe he will choose well this time. Chances are, he will.
  2. Pro-social messages. When your teen makes responsible choices, point those out. “I was so proud when you stopped to help that young mother.” Those comments will encourage your teen to look for other times to show positive behavior.
  3. Value-laden messages. Talk about what you believe. Come right out and say what’s worrying you. “I am concerned about letting you go to an event where you know there will be drinking.” Talk with your teen about your values. Then strive to live up to them. Teens with role models for positive everyday values are less likely to try risky behaviors. But if they think their parents are hypocrites, they often ignore what they say.

It's never too late to send your teen messages that support positive behavior.


Brought to you by:

Nye County Schools
Pahrump, NV

[School Success Ideas for Families]

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