In my recent appearance on UK National TV- GB News, I argued against the notion that teenagers are inherently more disruptive today. Instead, I believe the narrative needs to shift. Teenage behaviour hasn't worsened; the way we approach their upbringing and education simply hasn't kept pace with their evolving needs.
Here's why:
New-Found Voices & Rights: Teenagers are increasingly aware of their rights and empowered to express themselves. This newfound voice is fueled by access to information online and witnessing social justice movements. Teenagers are inspired by role models like Greta Thunberg and social media influencers who champion various causes. They see their peers advocating for change, inspiring them to do the same. Teenagers are no longer considered passive participants but active ones in thier lives. UNCRC Article 12 states that every child has the right to be listened to and taken seriously. It is not a matter of what authority says now. They are their own person and have their own mind and thoughts/views that need to be taken into consideration when we make decisions affecting their lives.
Parent Influence and Changing Teacher Influence: The traditional dynamic of unquestioned parental authority is evolving as a result of an increasing wealth of resources at parents' disposal such as parenting classes, podcasts, and research. Parents are embracing more democratic styles, encouraging open communication, and fostering a sense of autonomy in their children. Parents who model these behaviours empower their teenage children to advocate for themselves. This allows teens to feel comfortable expressing their opinions and asserting their needs. I think it’s important to note that throughout my professional life, I have witnessed parents’ negative experiences of school/education and this influences how they interact, respond, and support their teenage children. It felt that the support for teenage children who experience bullying, struggle with mental health difficulties or/and require additional support due to their individual needs is inadequate due to a lack of resources. This led to parents becoming distrust of the school system and advocating to keep their teenage children safe and have their needs met through their own means and intervention.
Teacher & Organisational Pressures: Teachers face immense pressure with larger class sizes, standardised testing mandates, and funding cuts. This creates an environment where it's difficult to address individual needs, let alone adapt to the changing needs of an entire generation. In addition to this, the pressure and under-appreciation teachers face can contribute to stress, burnout, and mental health struggles. Additionally, the needs and expectations of students are constantly evolving, with changes in technology, social media, and learning styles. Keeping pace with these changes can be a challenge for educators.
Teacher’s Understanding of Modern Complex Needs: Many teachers lack training in child development, psychology, and understanding the impact of deprivation on development and mental health. These crucial areas were traditionally absent from the training curriculum, leaving educators unprepared to address the complex needs of young people.
So, are teenagers out of control? No. Teenagers today are more informed, empowered, and vocal. This is a positive evolution, but it requires a recalibration. Parents and educators need to adapt. It is very unfortunate that teachers are struggling within a broken system. The solution lies in acknowledging these realities and working towards solutions. Schools need to invest in smaller class sizes, prioritize mental health resources, and ensure teachers receive adequate training. Parents can advocate for better educational practices and continue to support their children's voices.
Ultimately, we need to recognize that teenagers are not OUT OF CONTROL. They are a generation with a growing sense of self-worth and a desire to make a difference. Systems around the teenagers need to bridge the gap, adapt new approaches, and empower them to navigate today's world and become responsible, engaged adults. By acknowledging these shifts and working together, we can create a more supportive environment for both teenagers and educators.
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Pei-I