Life Kit: Parenting A better way to support your teens as they go back to school
Aug 19, 2025
Lisa Damour, a teen psychologist and author, discusses the emotional challenges teens face as they head back to school, including perfectionism and social media pressures. She offers valuable insights on fostering communication between parents and teens, emphasizing the importance of listening and understanding their needs. Damour shares practical tips for tackling tough conversations and creating a supportive environment that helps teens navigate their emotions and build resilience during this crucial time.
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First-Day Self-Consciousness
- Mariel Segarra recalls feeling out of place on her first day of sixth grade after dressing differently than peers.
- The memory illustrates how back-to-school can trigger intense self-consciousness for preteens.
Old Struggles Meet New Pressures
- Lisa Damour distinguishes timeless teen challenges from new, modern pressures like social media and academic demand.
- Today's teens worry more about big issues like the future and environment compared with past generations.
Let Teens Open The Conversation
- Wait for your teen to bring up tough topics, then ask open questions like, 'How are things feeling for you at school?'
- If they don't, schedule a time and ask permission to talk so they can prepare mentally.