by Natalie M. Wolverson

Created on: November 01, 2009

Low self-esteem is becoming and increasing problem within the teen population. This is one of the causes for teenagers to feel pushed out and seek acceptance into society, a group or cult via other means such as crime. Sometimes teenagers don't mean to do wrong, but they are just trying to fit in with a particular group - this is also down to peer pressure and the mounted stress that is created.

As a parent it is important that you try to help your teen through such difficult times whilst remaining supportive rather than judgemental. Using some of the following ideas to try to boost your teen's confidence over time:

1) Try to find out what your child is interested in - maybe a sport or maybe they prefer reading or drawing. Every child has something that they are good at and enjoy. Once you have found this help your teen get into related clubs or activities. By giving your child a group to join they will feel like they are a part of something and can then focus on what they enjoy. Many clubs offer competitions that your child can enter - you must teach your teen that even if they don't win, they did their best and had a go, and that is what really matters.

2) Show interest in your teenagers school work or after school activities. Support them, offer them help with homework they may struggle on. Struggling on homework or coursework can make the teenager feel quite low about themselves and upset that they can't complete the work, however you must remind them that they can't be good at everything they do and that they are better at other lessons or activities. Congratulate your child when they complete difficult work.

3) Sometimes it is all too easy to give off the wrong impression at parents contact day, however regardless what the teacher says you should support your child rather than showing disappointment. Don't set the expectations of your child too high because it puts a lot of pressure on them and can harm their self confidence if they feel they have let you down. Be reasonable and don't expect them to follow in your footsteps.

4) Don't try and make decisions for them. No one wants to be pushed into something that they don't want to do. Let your child make their own decision about what school they attend, or what lessons they take - it is their life that they will be affecting later on. Give your teenager input but don't make them understand your point - you can put your point across and let your feelings be heard but respect the decision they make in the

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