Teen girls live in a toxic social world, so toxic that an increasing number of girls are suffering emotional trouble, from low self-esteem and anxiety to depression and eating disorders.
What’s the solution?
The answer isn’t as much a “what” as it is a “who.” A teen girl’s greatest hope for navigating her social world is you, mom.
To address why and to guide you in helping your daughter shape her identity in Christ, author Heather Holleman is joining me on Focus on the Family with Jim Daly.
She says the most effective way to come alongside your daughter is to be a good listener. Allow her to say what’s on her mind without interrupting or editing her. Let her finish her sentences even if she has a hard time finding the right words to communicate her feelings. Avoid offering advice too quickly. In most cases, your daughter wants to be heard and understood more than she wants guidance.
A second way to help your daughter is to be available to her as much as possible. She may talk early in the morning or late at night instead of when it’s most convenient for you. So be patient and allow her to open up when she’s in the mood.
Most of all, be focused and engaged. Ask thoughtful questions. Make sure that what she’s saying and what you’re hearing are the same thing.
Our full conversation covers a wide range of topics that will help your daughter find her footing and develop her identity in Christ, including:
• How speaking truth and love to your daughter can impact her identity.
• Understanding your daughter’s world, from her desire for acceptance and popularity to her inner battles.
• How a firm foundation in faith will give your daughter confidence in interacting with others.
• Practical tips for forming your daughter’s identity, including trust in God, sharing your own story, and encouraging her to journal.
Listen on your local radio station, online, on Apple Podcasts, or take us with you on our free phone app.
If your daughter is in crisis, we have caring, Christian counselors who will listen, pray with you, and get you on a path toward healing and hope. They’ll also direct you to additional resources in your area if necessary. Call us, leave your name and number, and we’ll get back with you as soon as possible. The number during business hours is 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459).
Before I close, I’d like to extend an invitation for you to become a special partner with us through our monthly “Friends of Focus on the Family” program. When you do, I’ll send you a copy of Heather Holleman’s Elita Brown series bundle (for middle school girls ages 10-14), which includes The Elite Seat, The Disappearing Seat, and This Seat’s Saved, as a way of saying thank you for touching others with the love of Christ. You’ll also receive member-exclusive benefits. To make your pledge, or for more information, click here or call 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459).
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