Most people typically look for more and more privacy as they grow up. This is especially true during adolescence; as teens become older, they’re also faced with a few considerable challenges. If managed properly, this period can help them become the person that they want to be and decide on what they want to do in their life.
For parents, this period in their child’s life is a huge change, too. After all, most parents are not in a hurry to see their baby grow up yet. But it’s essential for parents to recognize that their child’s need for privacy doesn’t mean that they’re off to doing something that they wouldn’t approve.
By learning the connection between trust and privacy, you can raise your child to become a healthy and trustworthy teen with the ability to make sensible decisions.
Understanding the connection between trust and privacy
As your child starts their journey through their teenage years, they like to feel that you trust them. They want to feel trustworthy enough to do more than what was expected of them at a younger age Usually, they would also want you to see them as mature, independent, and responsible enough to take care of themselves.
Also, you need to understand that teens are also going through some physical changes in their lives. That’s why it makes them want to have their own space. You may have noticed that they’ve begun to regularly lock the bathroom door, so they can have their privacy. When this happens, keep in mind that this is part of their development and shouldn’t cause you any concern.
Very Well Family says that when teens have the privacy that they need, it helps them build their self-esteem. Because of this, you’ll be able to develop a balance between knowing what they’re doing and trusting them to have privacy. You’ll also know when it’s time to step in instead of snooping around.
Respecting the importance of teenage space
Having their own space fulfills the basic needs of your teens to function and discover themselves as they grow. Some use it as a self-entertainment center while others use it as a rest and recovery space. Other parents even had transportable kit homes made to give their teen enough space to have room for all the things that they need.
But Psychology Today says that most parents are often bothered by a few problems associated with their teens having their room. Some of them think that their teen won’t be able to get their homework done or that they won’t get enough sleep for the day. Some are afraid that they’d invite their friends over only to shut the door and play online the entire day.
But giving the right amount of space that they need gives them a place to unwind. It’s helpful, especially when trying to recover from the demands of social life and school. It also gives them the space to express themselves and even discover who they are and what matters most to them.
When it comes to giving your child their space, discussing it with them is still the best choice. Remember to keep an open line of communication with your child. Doing so can sustain the level of trust that you have between the two of you.
