KARACHI:
The teenage years mark a period of exploration, self-discovery and the pursuit of independence. While many behaviours are inherent to adolescent growth, certain common activities adversely affect teenagers. Today’s teenagers are heavily engaged in the digital world spending substantial time on social media platforms. Excessive use can result in problems like cyberbullying, social comparison and a distorted perception of reality. The continual exposure to carefully crafted and idealised images may contribute to low self-esteem and a sense of inadequacy.
Experimentation with risky behaviours, including substance abuse, is not uncommon during adolescence. Engaging in these activities can have severe consequences on physical health, mental well-being and academic performance. Substance abuse may lead to addiction, negatively impacting the trajectory of a teenager’s life. The demands of school, extracurricular activities and social life often lead to insufficient sleep for many teenagers. Chronic sleep deprivation can impact cognitive function, mood regulation and overall health. This can contribute to heightened stress levels, poor academic performance and an increased vulnerability to mental health issues. Moreover, teenagers are susceptible to societal pressures related to body image, which can lead to unhealthy eating habits. Engaging in extreme dieting, binge eating or developing eating disorders can result in severe health complications and have adverse effects on a teenager’s physical and emotional well-being.
As teenagers seek independence, communication with parents may falter, leading to a lack of guidance, misunderstandings and increased isolation. This breakdown can leave teenagers grappling with challenges without adequate support systems. Recognising the adverse effects of common teenage behaviours is crucial for parents, educators and teenagers. Encouraging open communication, fostering resilience and promoting healthy coping mechanisms can aid adolescents in navigating these challenges. Approaching these issues with empathy and support is essential, acknowledging that adolescence is a complex period where positive guidance can significantly shape a teenager’s future.
Ali Ahmed
Sukkur
Published in The Express Tribune, December 13th, 2023.
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