Common misconceptions about teenagers you should stop believing!

 Teenagers often get a bad rap. From wild behaviour to rebellious attitudes it seems like the media and society have a love hate relationship with this stage of life but many of these stereotypes and misconceptions are unfair and misleading. I love my girls to bits and was dreading them being teenagers but really, it's not all bad! Don't get me wrong they do have their moments but it’s time to bust some myths about teenagers!

Teenagers Are Always Rebellious

One of the biggest myths about teenagers is that they are always defiant and rebellious. While it’s true that adolescence is a time for self discovery and pushing boundaries not all teens go through rebellious phases. My girls have pushed boundaries but I wouldn't say they have been rebellious. Most teenagers are responsible, respectful and are hardworking. It’s unfair to label every teen as a rule breaker just because they are navigating a complex stage of life. My youngest is a fine example of this, she doesn't break any rules, she just bends them a little to suit her. I swear, she tests me! I don't know whether to be angry at her or admire her genius!

Teenagers Are Lazy and Don't Work Hard

It’s easy to assume that teens don’t have the same work ethic as adults. However many teenagers are balancing schoolwork, part time jobs, extracurricular activities, a social life and family responsibilities. They have a lot to deal with! The pressure at school and college is intense and many teens rise to the occasion. Their schedules may look very different from an adult's but that doesn’t mean they aren’t working hard. Becky started working 12 hour night shifts at a care home while she was still a teenager and at college. She was far from lazy.

All Teenagers Are Into Social Media All the Time

While it’s true that social media plays a big role in the lives of many teenagers, not every teen is glued to their phone 24/7. Becky is one for social media and always has been but Ellie can take or leave it. She does her streaks on Snapchat on a morning but for the rest of the day when she is home she hardly bothers with online stuff. Most teenagers use social media wisely using it to stay connected with friends, explore hobbies or stay informed. The obsession with social media is often exaggerated.

Teenagers Are Always Moody

It’s easy to write off teenagers as hormonal, moody individuals, but not all teens display dramatic mood swings. Yes, that part of life can be an emotional rollercoaster but many teenagers are level headed. Just like adults, teens experience a range of emotions and some may be better at managing them than others. 

Teenagers Don't Care About Their Futures

A common misconception is that teens are only focused on the present and don’t think about the future but in reality many teenagers are already planning for their futures whether it's through college, exploring careers or personal development. Teens care deeply about their goals, aspirations and dreams they may just express them differently than adults do. Becky has been saving for a house since she was in her teen years and Ellie is still a teen and has had her career planned for years!

Teenagers Don’t Listen to Adults

Another common myth is that teenagers don’t care about the opinions of adults. While it’s true that some teens may appear dismissive of advice most are simply seeking independence. I always say that my girls don't listen to me but they do. They simply choose not to take my advice at that present time. When time has passed they always come back to me and say that I told them that or something weeks ago and was right. 

Teenagers Have A Problem With Authority

It’s often assumed that teenagers are automatically at odds with authority figures, including teachers, parents and the police. In truth many teens have positive, respectful relationships with authority figures. They are just more likely to push back if they feel misunderstood or if their independence is threatened. When treated with respect and given the space to express their thoughts most teens have no problem with authority.

Teenagers Don't Have the Same Concerns as Adults

There’s a misconception that teens don’t have the same concerns as adults but they actually worry about many of the same things: family, friends, school, the future and more. They might deal with their concerns differently but the worries are still there and to be honest I would be worried if a teenager did have the same concerns as adults. They don't need to be worrying about money, where the next meal is coming from and things like that.

Teenagers Are Always Trying to Be Adults

While many teens seek independence they aren’t necessarily eager to grow up too fast. The pressure to act like an adult can be a lot but many teens still cherish their childhood. They may want to make their own decisions but they also value time with family, their hobbies and simply being teenagers. It’s important to let them experience this stage without the expectation that they need to be grown up.

Teenagers aren't all bad, in fact a lot of them are pretty amazing people! Not everything that they say about them is true!

What do you think about teenagers now a days?