Understanding others begins
with empathy. It is the act of putting yourself in another’s shoes.
Often teenagers can have
difficulty in this area because their own problems seem to loom so large in
their minds. The teenage years are the period when it is hardest to genuinely
feel the emotional plight of others.
To help develop empathy, it is
important to be a really good listener. When your children are speaking to you,
regardless of the topic at hand, always listen to them with respect.
React to your teenager as you
would to an adult friend. Make a real effort to listen as much as you talk.
When you have information to
convey on an important topic, speak for half a minute or so, and then stop and
let your child have a chance to react.
Accept the fact that most teens
will complain sometimes. Let them air their grievances fully and completely.
Try not to interrupt while they are expressing their feelings.
Most importantly, take time to
have relaxed conversations alone with each of your children on a regular basis.
Frequent talks will help you
spot difficulties before they become real problems.
It’s important that all
involved be encouraged to talk AND to listen.
