Research Shows Teens Benefit From Spending Time with their Parents

Parents are often under the misconception that as their kids grow into adolescents, they'll no longer want to spend time with them. But, there's a new study that was published in the August edition of Child Development that contradicts that way of thinking.

The study suggests that teens do avoid spending time with their friends and parents at the same time. However, their craving for spending private time with their parents can actually increase during their teenage years. It also suggests that this one-on-one parent-teen time may actually help to raise the social confidence and self-esteem of teens, especially those who spend private time with their dads.

According to Penn State University professor, Susan McHale, it is common thinking that adolescence breaks the bonds between parents and teens. The study's co-author says that in fact, adolescence can bring them closer as the teens becomes more interested in communicative relationships and abstract thinking.

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Benefits of Backpacking with Teens

There are numerous benefits that come with backpacking with your teen. The surroundings provide a way for you to have each other’s undivided attention. Backpacking with your teenager is a good way to spend quality time together, talking openly and freely. You can open the doors to deep discussions by talking about all the wonderful things you see on your hike together.

Just think about it. There are no distractions from social networking, TV, phone calls or text messaging. That alone is a plus when it comes to teens of today. There's just you, your teenager, the wilderness, the fresh air, plants, birds, wildlife, amazing scenery, peace and quiet. Of course, in the beginning you teenager may complain about being away from their friends and favorite digital gadgets. But, backpacking will soon heighten your teen's senses, leaving their thoughts about Facebook and ooVoo behind.

Backpacking can provide a learning experience for both of you. Before you set out on your adventure, buy a couple of pocket-sized books to take with you. Every time you spot an extraordinary bird or unfamiliar plant, try to find them in your books. You'll both enjoy exploring and learning about your newly discovered wildlife and plants, learning about them together, as a team.

Backpacking Boosts Parent-Teen Relationships

You'll soon find your teenager opening up to you about all sorts of topics: friends, schools, peer pressure, issues at home or anything else she/he may be curious about. It will happen so naturally, your young adult won't even notice opening up to you, the parent of all people. As the study above shows, spending private time with your teenager is a wonderful gift. Backpacking is great way to do this because you're both away from the day-to-day distractions and obligations that can soak up your time away from each other.

Another benefit, which is also a great lesson for your teen, is the exercise you'll get backpacking. Whether you take a weekend backpacking trip, or just go out for a couple of hours, you'll still get a good workout in at the end of the day. Everyone can benefit from getting exercise. But, by taking a backpacking adventure with your teen, you'll be leading by example. It's very important to show teenagers how fulfilling this healthy practice can be regularly. It can even lead to your soon-to-be adult planning regular workouts with you at home or around your neighborhood.

Guest post by Kiesha Joseph

Kiesha Joseph is a content writing expert for The Family Compass. The Family Compass provides parents with information on family life and parenting issues. They are the go-to source for disorders, troubled teens, rehab, military schools, and more.

Sources & References

http://consumer.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=667823

http://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/teen/Pages/Ways-To-Build-Your-Teenagers-Self-Esteem.aspx?nfstatus=401&nftoken=00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000&nfstatusdescription=ERROR%3a+No+local+token