A new long term study published in the August issue of Child Development reveals that teens benefit from spending time with parents. While the study included only a small group of two parent families in Pennsylvania with limited diversity, the findings are worth noting. More specifically:
The study authors were surprised to discover that when fathers spent more time alone with their teenagers, the kids reported they felt better about themselves. “Mothers weren’t unimportant, but they are kind of a given in most families,” said McHale. “Mothers’ roles are very scripted: they’re caregivers, activity planners.”
So What?
In reality, two parent working and middle class families with two or more children often have very busy schedules. Additionally, in many such households both parents work. Even so, all families have the opportunity to prioritize spending time together.
- How does your local congregation encourage parents of teenagers to spend time with their teens? How does your congregation’s youth ministry equip teens to value those opportunities?
- What has your own experience been (either as a teen or the parent of a teen)? What helpful hints and practical pointers can you share to help parents of teens connect with their children?