How to Support Your Teen Through Identity Challenges

Teenagers go through difficult changes in their lives they may struggle to come to terms with. A surge in hormones along with body changes and peer pressure can contribute to teenagers struggling to find their identity. There are times when teenagers don't feel good enough especially if they struggle with school and building relationships.  Parents also forget they were once teenagers too, but every generation differs according to the environment they're raised in. Therefore, parents may struggle to understand their teenagers' identity challenges.  This post will provide valuable information on what an identity crisis is, why teenagers struggle with it, and how you can help your child find their way. 

What is an Identity Crisis?

An identity crisis is when someone feels a strong sense of uncertainty and confusion about who they are. The person's sense of identity then becomes unstable. It tends to happen to people who are going through a time of change or triggered by trauma or stressors.  Children typically go through an identity crisis during adolescent development. Life events can also trigger an identity crisis in children such as: 

• Parental divorce 
• Starting a new school
• Moving to a new place
• Losing a loved one 
• Starting a new relationship 

Most teenagers who go through an identity crisis can also experience mental health challenges like depression or confusion about sexual identity. 

Is Identity Crisis and Gender Dysphoria the Same?

Gender dysphoria and an identity crisis aren't the same thing but they can be related. When a teenager is confused about who they are, they may start to think that they're living in the wrong body. In recent years, an alarming number of teenagers have experienced gender dysphoria. They may start to take puberty blockers so that they can transition. Additionally, there is also the furry phenomenon where children identify as animals. However, studies show that furries don't suffer from mental health disorders.  These issues are complex so you will need the help of a health care professional to determine whether your teenager is suffering from an identity crisis or a form of dysphoria. 

Warning Signs Your Teen Has an Identity Crisis

Although most adults claim that the life of a teenager in the modern age is easier than ever before, adolescents are still struggling with low self-esteem, depression, and even a lack of attachment to their parents.  Social media also has a role to play in why some teenagers don't feel like they are good enough or struggling with gender identity. On the other hand, it can be difficult to determine whether your teen is experiencing identity challenges so here are warning signs to look out for:  

• Out-of-character behavior such as dressing or speaking differently
• A distorted perception of themselves 
• Dramatic mood swings 
• Spending excessive time alone 
• Risky behavior
• Questioning family values 
• Drastically changes in appearance like cutting hair or getting face piercings
• Uncomfortable with their bodily changes 

If you notice these changes in your teenager it may be time to speak to a health care professional. Addressing these issues early on can lower the risk of it becoming a problem in their adult life. 

Tips to Build Your Teen's Identity

Is it just a phase or is your teen changing into who they'll be for the rest of their lives? The following tips will help your child through their identity challenges and become who they're meant to be.  

Value Uniqueness

Every child is different so it's crucial to accept your teen for their unique interests, sense of style, and music choice. You should only intervene if their choices become harmful to your teen and the people around them. Encourage them to be different and to avoid trends. 

Highlight Their Talents

Teenagers may have low self-esteem and struggle to build their confidence. You can help by highlighting the talent and gifts they have. Remind them of their strengths and how hard they've worked to achieve them. 

Encourage Self Discovery

The pressure to be liked by peers can force teenagers to do things that they wouldn't normally do. That's why it's important to encourage your child to discover their interests and not follow the crowd. 

Acknowledge Your Teen's Feelings 

Teenage emotions are heightened compared to adults because of their changing hormones. They may feel extreme anger or sadness over something that seems trivial to you but means the world to them. Acknowledge how your teen feels and try to understand what's causing their emotions to change. 

Teach Your Teen About Family History

Another way to build your teenager's sense of identity is by teaching them about their family history. Speak to them about your childhood and what it was like growing up with your parents. Discuss what ancestry your teen is from, as well as your culture and heritage. 

Speak to a Professional

If you're not sure how to assist your teen with an identity problem you can speak to a mental health professional that specializes in behavioral therapy. Consider family therapy so you can both discover your teen's identity together.  The therapist can determine whether your child has any mental health issues and provide practical solutions to help your child discover who they truly are. Therapy allows parents and teenagers to form positive relationships while working on identity development.   

Conclusion 

Teenagers who experience identity issues can start to form other mental health problems so you must get your child the help they need when you start to notice behavioral changes.  Liahona Academy can help you along the way. Call us today to book a session so we can help your teen tap into their identity and discover who they are.