Stereotypes Can Fuel Teen Misbehavior

Interesting article from Reuters about the impact of peer pressure and parental expectations on teen behavior. The research cited is published in the Journal of Research on Adolescence. Th econlcusion is that you often get what you expect from your teenage children.

http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS168645+16-Oct-2009+PRN20091016

Some interesting points from the researcher article that seem to really align with what AFA believes:

"* Parents' own behavior is a powerful example. Do not suggest in your words or behavior that the only or best way to have fun is through drinking, sex or drug use.
* Let your teenager know that many adolescents resist drinking, smoking or early sexual activity.
* Draw attention to examples of teenagers who are doing positive things. Convey confidence that your child can do the same, and will not be alone in doing so.
* Communicate and support avenues for having fun without negative risk-taking. Teenagers who get into trouble are often simply seeking ways to relieve stress or have fun. Parents who understand this need can offer ideas and opportunities that are healthy and legal.
* Make your own home a fun and comfortable place for your teenager and his/her friends to socialize. Do not allow negative risk-taking such as drinking to occur in your own home under your supervision.
* Encourage and support involvement in positive extracurricular activities, such as community service, sports, music, theater, faith-based youth groups or other activities.
* Pay attention to your teenager's peer choices. Positive peer pressure exists! Encourage and support affiliation with other teens who are involved in positive activities and not getting into trouble. Get to know other parents, and encourage affiliations with families who share your values.
* Make sure your teenager knows that there will be negative consequences if he or she engages in negative risk-taking, and follow through if such risk-taking occurs. Lack of consequences implicitly communicates that parents accept such behaviors."