A Gallup poll reveals that today’s teens are grappling with intense emotions, while their parents find it difficult to engage in challenging conversations with them. Teen psychologist Lisa Damour offers guidance on how parents can better support their children as a new school year starts.
The beginning of a school year can be a turbulent time for pre-teens and teens, bringing new routines, different classes, and evolving friendships. Parents can play a crucial role by understanding and supporting their children’s emotional needs during these transitions.
Understanding the Emotional Landscape of Gen Z
A July 2024 survey provides valuable insights into the emotional struggles faced by today’s Gen Z youth. This survey was conducted by the Walton Family Foundation and Gallup, in collaboration with teen psychologist Lisa Damour. It involved 1,675 children aged 10 to 18, along with one of their guardians. Results indicate that Gen Z youth experience pressure to achieve perfection and heightened negative emotions like anxiety, particularly among girls and teens.
Damour emphasizes the challenges this generation faces. “We’re asking a lot of them academically. They are navigating a social media environment that is taxing,” she explains. Moreover, the future weighs heavily on their minds, with the survey indicating that about two-thirds worry about the state of the world as they become adults.
Addressing Perfectionism
One-third of Gen Z youth struggle with perfectionism, especially girls and older children. Damour warns that this can impact a child’s self-esteem. The survey found that those striving for perfection are more likely to feel anxious, sad, and stressed. Parents can help by encouraging teens to view mistakes positively and maintain a healthy sense of self-worth.
Damour advises that parents remind their children they do not need to be perfect. This message can alleviate the stress associated with perfectionism and promote healthier emotional well-being.
Open Communication with Teens
According to the survey, one in six parents find it challenging to comfort their upset child or communicate effectively. Many assume teens don’t want to talk, but Damour highlights the importance of these conversations. “Teenagers find discussions with adults helpful and care about adult input,” she says.
She encourages parents to engage in conversations about concerns. Listening is crucial, as teens appreciate adults taking their feelings seriously. Natural openings in daily interactions can facilitate these conversations. Once teens start discussing issues, parents can inquire about their experiences, allowing them to express themselves.
Navigating Emotional Swings
Preteens and teenagers have complex emotional lives, as indicated by the survey. Most respondents felt happiness frequently, yet many also experienced stress and anxiety. “Teens have intense emotions, which are signs of development,” Damour notes.
Parents can help manage these mood swings by understanding that emotions should correlate with experiences. Damour explains, “If your teen feels excluded from a party, sadness is expected. Not experiencing emotions would be unusual.”
Teens possess effective coping mechanisms, such as crying, cuddling pets, or exercising. Parents should intervene only if harmful strategies are employed. Accepting negative emotions and managing them positively is vital, according to Damour.
The digital story was crafted by Malaka Gharib, edited by Andee Tagle and Meghan Keane, with visual editing by Beck Harlan.
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