10. Money:
Money can become a major area of
tension in family life. Many people experience financial hardship and
they can spend a lot of time worrying about their finances. This can
greatly affect teenagers. They may have friends who come from wealthy
families and so find it hard to accept that money is tight in their
own home. They might crave the latest clothes and gadgets believing
that this will guarantee the approval of their friends.
Some parents and carers are not
motivated by material things and find it hard to accept that their
teen is. Equally some teens reject materialism while their parents or
carers strive to have the best of everything.
Parents and carers can argue about
money and this can cause tension in the home.
Whatever your financial situation, it
is often best to be honest with your teenager as they take in their
surroundings and listen to what is going on around them.
It can be hard to strike a balance
between being honest about your financial situation and worrying them
unnecessarily.
Some families provide their teens with
regular pocket money. Some attach conditions and expect their teen to
earn pocket money while others provide it freely. Whatever your
approach it is best to be calm, clear, fair and consistent.
The aim is to teach your teen to
appreciate what they do have and not take it for granted. It can be
beneficial to encourage them to use some of their money to buy small
gifts for others so that they can experience the pleasure of giving
as well as receiving.
Giving small gifts to friends, family and pets can teach your teen the joy of giving.
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