Parents need to know the most common behaviors teens are engaging in that could lead to negative consequences. Some of the challenges teens are facing today are social media, school violence, opioid misuse, and poor mental health.
One reason risky behavior is so common during adolescence is that the teen brain isn’t yet fully developed. Teens are not able to realize the long-term consequences of their behavior, research suggests that youth actually perceive the benefits of risky behavior more than the risks of it.
What is at-risk or risky behavior?
At-risk behaviors, also often referred to as high-risk behaviors or risky behaviors, include actions that increase the chance that a young person will be affected by disease, injury, death, or social problems.
For example, the CDC suggests the following as risky behavior among youth:
- Underage drinking
- High-risk substance use
- Vaping and smoking
- Dating violence
- Sexual violence
- Unprotected sex
- Reckless, impaired or distracted driving
- Social media use
- Suicidal behavior
5 Ways to help prevent risky teen behavior
It’s a natural part of growing us for teens to take risks, and for many it’s a time for exploration. While risks aren’t automatically positive or negative, patterns of negative risk-taking behaviors can sometimes lead to physical and mental health issues for young people.
1. Set limits and boundaries. Research has shown that adolescents actually want rules! They need boundaries and limits set by their parents.
-Curfews. Teens need curfews, whether it’s going out with friends, or limiting their screen-time. They help make sure your teen is safe while also teaching them responsibility, self-control, and time management skills.
2. Technology contract. This is another hot button topic, whether your teen engages in doom-scrolling or might be interacting with less than ethical people online, setting limits with technology can reduce at-risk behavior.
–Social media increases youth risky behavior. According to research, there is a likelihood of risky behaviors such as drug abuse, risky sexual behavior, and adaptability issues in young ages. Limiting your teen’s screen-time is imperative. Teaching them healthy online habits is crucial.
3. Constructive activities (hobbies, interests). Find something that your teen is passionate about or they have had an interest in. From sports, dance, chess, writing, drama, animals — there are many hobbies and interests with organizations to join. Having a healthy outlet leave less time to get into trouble, as well as gives than a better environment.
-Internship and community service. This is a great way to keep your teen busy in a constructive way and they will also meet likeminded people. If they have an interest in animals, find your local Humane Society or ASPCA — find out if they need volunteers.
4. Family meals. We all know how challenging this can be, however research has proven that sitting down for meals together can reduce risky behavior in adolescents. It’s important to make an effort at least a few times a week to all sit-down together as a family — no devices allowed.
-Cook together. Talking with them while preparing dinner will open communication boundaries because of the informal manner.
5. Communication. It’s important to have ongoing conversations with your teen about risky behavior and the consequences of it. Riding in the car together, side-by-side, is one of the best time to have casual chats.
-News alert. Be attentive of newsworthy incidents involving young people that ended in less than happy results. Maybe a teen driving distracted or a young person that was binge drinking that needed to be hospitalized for alcohol poisoning — and of course, we never want to have to discuss a lethal overdose (however it is reality). When a is teen accidentally was given fentanyl – whether vaping or smoking marijuana.
Never stop talking to your teen about the consequences of risky behavior.
Also read:
What Causes Teenage Mental Health Issues
How Family Therapy Can Help My Teen
Image credit: Freepik
