Are our teenagers becoming adults slower?

Today’s research is showing us some alarming new facts - teenagers are staying indoors more and delaying key experiences. We can see that teens are driving less, tasting their first sip of alcohol later in life, getting involved in relationships later, and while we may see this as a good thing, perhaps these trends are actually harming the development of their adulthood.

We have recently learnt a term used to define the generation and the issues that are confronting them: ‘iGen’. This term (defined as being born in 1995 or any time after), is designed to highlight our teens caution towards growing up. The emphasis being on the increased amount of time spent in front of a screen watching television, scrolling through social media, or connecting via email with their peers.

These delays, that as parents make us think they are behaving, may actually be postponing their development with face-to-face interactions. This can impact their ability to interview for prospective job roles, and develop a sense of identity and resiliency, helping them to transform into adulthood.

The impact of technology

Researchers have shown further concern with this development, into the mental health of our teenagers. The introduction of smartphones almost a decade ago, meant that instead of using phones to simply text or call their peers, they are now using them for an increased amount of time and thus preventing them from participating in events, and merely being a fly on the wall through social media. Research this even further, and this leads to concerns over suicide and depression.

Facing adversity head-on is an important aspect of life. However, with the Internet, the ability to simply hide behind a screen has become an option. Spending less time going out with friends and creating memories, and spending time alone, can be extremely isolating. And when a teenager delays getting their driver’s licence, this restricts their growth factors in gaining greater independence away from school and family life.

What we can do to help

So, is there any an answer we wonder? Is there a way to help our teenagers avoid the trap of social media and confront adulthood head-on? From our research within the team, we have learnt the best thing to do is to encourage the development of peer relationships, and participation in activities outside the home and the school walls. While watching our teenagers become adults is difficult as parents, one must consider how difficult it will be on both parties if their teenager doesn’t fully develop.

Another aspect we found to help our teenagers, was to ensure they they are given some responsibility within the home. As parents we are responsible for feeding, cleaning and holding our children’s hands. But as they become adults, our role of feeding and caring for them should diminish. For example, teenagers should be putting their dishes in the dishwasher, making their beds, walking the dog and so forth.

Raising teenagers is a daunting process. From the mood swings, the growth spurts, the endless books and extra classes, but it’s fantastic too. It’s a time we get to witness their growth into adulthood, both physically and mentally. And as parents, our role is to simply help them get from A to B, all the while learning when is the right time to step in, and the right time to back away.

Related articles

Summer jobs? How to motivate your teen to get one!

Starting off the new year right...with kids