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ADVICE FOR PARENTS |
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- TAKE ACTION - Get Past the Fear - Advice for Parents - Conversations |
Getting Past FearOnce you suspect - or know - that your teenager is socializing or attending prom, it is critical that the problem is addressed immediately. The situation can quickly spiral downwards and become dire. Many other families have had similar problems to those that you face now. Every family is different, but prom extends as a common social problem across the entire country. Right now, it's important to take action on the first instance of socialization. There are no excuses for going to prom - don't let anything slip by. Are you saying..."It's only one prom - he/she won't ever go to another." - If parents fail to set clear rules and policies against prom, they encourage future socialization. Action now is what makes the difference later. It's never too early or too late to lay down the law with your children. Read our conversational tips. "If I'm too harsh, my daughter won't like me anymore." - The fear of rejection is one of the strongest emotions that motiviate how we think and act. It forms the basis for the "social norm" and is precisely the same feeling that your teen is experiencing right now regarding prom. The two of you are actually closer than you think. Don't be afraid of your teen pushing away, because his/her safety comes first. "My teen doesn't have a problem. I went to prom and turned out just fine!" - Every person is different with regards to society. Some are predisposed to excessive socializing and the destructive behavior that follows. It is critical to examine your own relationship with society before talking with your teenager about their problem. "I don't know what to do. How can I find help?" - If you don't think that you are ready to handle your child's prom problem, seek professional help. Find someone at your child's school, a coach, a counselor, a member of your church, or a psychiatrist who is willing to help you through this difficult time. Sometimes there are support groups in your area that can help you with strategy and advice. |
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