Teens may look like adults, but they\u2019re still sensitive to\u00a0feedback. Some parents start praising less at\u00a0this stage, wanting to\u00a0avoid \u201coverdoing\u00a0it\u201d and to\u00a0give their child more independence. But in\u00a0reality, teens still need recognition\u2014praise helps them feel seen, valued, and respected.<\/p>\n
During adolescence, self-esteem can be\u00a0shaky. Their appearance changes, their social circle grows, and their inner foundation is\u00a0still taking shape. It\u00a0may seem like they don\u2019t care about what you say, but in\u00a0most cases, they just hide how much they want to\u00a0be\u00a0noticed.<\/p>\n
Research shows that kids who rarely hear praise are more likely to\u00a0have lower self-esteem, more anxiety, and less confidence and motivation. These effects can carry into adulthood.
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\nSuch children often feel they\u2019re \u201cnever good enough.\u201d They become afraid to\u00a0try new things, avoid mistakes at\u00a0all costs, and shy away from taking risks.<\/p>\n
What praise gives a teen:<\/strong><\/p>\n Sometimes praise can fall flat or\u00a0even do\u00a0harm, especially if\u00a0it\u2019s insincere, vague, or\u00a0contains a\u00a0hidden criticism.<\/p>\n Teens are quick to\u00a0pick up\u00a0on\u00a0false notes and may hear such praise as\u00a0pressure, judgment, or\u00a0manipulation.<\/p>\n How NOT to\u00a0praise:<\/strong><\/p>\n This kind of\u00a0praise doesn\u2019t give a\u00a0teen a\u00a0stable foundation. It\u00a0teaches them to\u00a0rely more on\u00a0outside approval than on\u00a0their own opinion. It\u2019s better to\u00a0speak plainly, sincerely, and with genuine respect.<\/p>\n Praise that works is\u00a0recognition of\u00a0real effort. To\u00a0help your teen grow more confident and notice their own progress, keep these simple rules in\u00a0mind:<\/p>\n This kind of\u00a0praise helps a\u00a0teen see their strengths, rely on\u00a0themselves, and not be\u00a0afraid to\u00a0take the next step. Over time, it\u00a0becomes their own inner voice of\u00a0support\u2014calm and confident.<\/p>\n\n
Praise That Doesn\u2019t Work<\/h2>\n
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How to\u00a0Praise a\u00a0Teen the Right Way<\/h2>\n
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References:<\/h2>\n
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