Dealing with pressure and expectations
Many young people feel the weight of expectation – from parents, teachers, friends, school, and what they expect from themselves and their lives. And while we all want our teenagers to reach their potential, try to match your expectations to their individual personality, interests and capabilities.
Where there’s an ‘expectation gap’ between what you think your teenager should be achieving or aiming for and the reality, it’s important to recognise the effect this pressure can have on your young person.
Remember that the most important thing is that they are healthy and happy in whatever they choose to do.
The media – and increasingly, social media – can also be a source of pressure and expectations. Talk about the messages and images your young person receives through the media or their social feeds which can shape their values, perceptions and expectations about life.
Exam stress
It’s important to remind young people that exam results are only one measure of success, and there are many avenues to getting where you want to go in life.
Check out Reach Out’s tips for exam stress and teenagers, aimed at helping parents support young people through what can be a challenging time.