Helping Teens Socialize During the Pandemic
The ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult for everyone, including adolescents and their parents. For over a year, many kids and teens have been isolated to some degree from friends, classmates, teachers, and family. Socializing is a vital part of development for teenagers and is important to them personally. Many teens feel the loss and a sense of grief due to losing time with friends and missing social milestones. Read on for ideas for helping teens socialize during the pandemic.
Why social connection is important
Socialization is a big part of most teens’ lives, but how important is it? As adolescents manage social connections, friendships, and romantic interests, they work to develop their own identities. Teenage years are often spent finding a sense of autonomy as adolescents begin to form an identity separate from their parents and family. While this can create conflict and tension, it is a vital part of development for this period in life.
Social media
In 2021, most teenagers engage in social media for socializing, entertainment, and connection to others. However, similarly to adults, social media can have a negative effect on teens as they begin to compare themselves to others online. But the negative effects can be more pronounced for teens. This is because they are striving to develop a personal identity within various social groups. Parents can encourage an open dialogue about social media, limit screen time, discuss the dangers of comparison and discuss how social media is not an accurate portrayal of real life. Parents can allow and encourage teens to spend time safely with friends without a screen. This could include a physically distanced hike or picnic at a park.
Relaxing the rules
While parents should keep an eye on teens’ social media use, parents should also embrace technology. Teenagers have grown up with it and it has always been a part of their life. It may be unfruitful to try and discourage teens from using technology overall. Encourage them to unplug and spend time outdoors, doing art, making music, and whatever interests them. Additionally, celebrations such as graduation may have to be altered or postponed. It’s important to find a way to celebrate milestones in another way, even if it’s different from expected.
Talking to a therapist
Many teens have friends and family they feel comfortable sharing their feelings. However, some teens don’t want to be a burden to friends and loved ones and maybe hesitant to discuss their distress. If a teen is not able to talk to someone around them, they may open up to a therapist or school counselor. If your teen is distressed but is hesitant to share with you or others around them, talk to them about speaking with a counselor. Art or music therapists may also be a good resource for teens when learning to express their feelings.
Talking to your teen
Make a point to talk with your teen. Despite their need to develop a separate identity, teens still need a secure attachment to their parents and plenty of support as they experience many life changes. When talking to your teen, check-in on their mood. Keep an eye out for signs of depression. Symptoms of clinical depression can include physical ailments like headaches, isolation or social withdrawal, substance use, and a decrease in self-esteem or an increase of self-criticism. Remember to be empathetic–what is important to them may not seem important to you, but try to understand and acknowledge their loss and unmet expectations. Don’t minimize what your teen is feeling. Ask them about ideas to spend time together as a family and support them–they may suggest board games, movie nights, or even video games.
Are you looking for more support for your teen or yourself? Please reach out to us. Our team of therapists is here to provide support and guidance. We look forward to connecting with you.
