Single Parenting in the Teen Years – Help Build Your Teen’s Body Image Now to Prevent Problems Later

We parents all remember what it’s like to be a teen, but the world that today’s teens are living in is very different from just a generation ago. Changes in appearance are a natural part of growing up, yet the pressure teens feel to fit in and look a certain way goes right along with these changes. This is something all teens have to deal with, but we as parents can make a big difference in how our teens view themselves. Here are some tips, courtesy of Be Prepared Period.

Talk About Media Messages

The media has long been blamed for having a negative impact on body image, but this impact has gone to a whole new level since the advent of social media. A huge proportion of a teen’s time is now spent using social media. That means they are constantly exposed to idealized images of the perfect body — not only from celebrities but from their own peers too.

You can limit social media use, but since you can’t escape it entirely, Verywell Family recommends teaching your teen to be “media literate.” Talk to them about how media images are often unrealistic. Even when it’s their own peers they see, it’s very likely that their friends who share the “perfect” image are just as self-conscious as they are.

Talk About Appearance and Sense of Self

As parents, we tend to worry about a teen’s focus on their appearance, especially when they try to look a certain way to be liked and accepted. Kids Health reminds us that when teens seem obsessed with their appearance, it’s partly because they are adjusting to a new reflection, and they’re also making a statement with their appearance. To them, they are figuring out who they are, and style is part of that.

This isn’t a bad thing; the trick is to allow them to express their identity while also communicating that they aren’t defined by how they look. Compliment your teen on her appearance, but focus on her attributes like her beautiful smile, and never on her size or shape. At the same time, give even more compliments telling her what you love about her personality. Your goal is to help her love her body exactly as she is while also building confidence in who she is as a person.

Along with complimenting your teen for her personality and character, make sure to support her talents and interests. There is no denying that adolescence can be a rocky time, and one of the best ways you can help her navigate it is by encouraging her to spend time doing what she enjoys. If she stays engaged in activities she loves, feels confident in her skills, and sees mistakes as learning experiences, she will have greater self-confidence and will be less likely to worry about her appearance.

Focus on Healthy Living

It’s actually a good thing to compliment your teen the right way when it comes to appearance, but focus more on the importance of health than appearance. For busy single parents, finding time for exercise and planning healthy meals can be hard. To make this easier, cook meals and do fun activities together. You can start by exercising together, which you can pair with fitness trackers and smartwatches. This can be a great time for bonding, and all the while, you’re both creating healthy habits with the end goal of having fun and feeling strong, not weight loss.

This time also gives you the opportunity to notice whether your teen struggles with body image or is at risk for an eating disorder. If you’re ever concerned, learn to spot the signs of eating disorders, such as weight loss or weight fluctuations. Disappearing after meals, which could be a sign of purging, and avoiding social plans that involve food are other signs to be aware of.

While you work hard to build up your teen’s body image, don’t forget that your teen will notice if you put yourself down too. Teens, just like adults, simply want a sense of belonging and acceptance. Modeling self-acceptance and building your teen’s positive self-image will help her navigate these years and learn to love herself into adulthood.