Don’t laugh at a youth for his affectations; he is only trying on one face after another to find a face of his own. – L. P. Smith

By SalFalko on Flickr

By SalFalko on Flickr

Figuring out “WHO AM I?” is an important piece of teenage development. This identify formation is a time when teens “try on” new ideas, experiences and beliefs. The things your teen likes or dislikes are often the face he chooses to show the world as he figures out his personality.

Be an eParent®! Spend time getting to know your child’s likes and dislikes. Ask your teen to show you his Facebook likes or the Twitter feeds he follows and ask what’s interesting about them.

One way teens figure out “Who am I?” is through their interests and hobbies. From an adult perspective, teens may appear to be interested in the same things as their friends or their siblings. From a teen’s perspective, hobbies and interests are often seen as defining a teen as a unique individual. Encourage your teen’s unique personality by taking the time to talk to her about her likes and dislikes. They may not always show it but teens value positive attention from their parents and other respected adults.

Download our activity and spend some time with your youth sharing both of your likes and dislikes – you are sure to learn more about each other!

To learn more contact UW-Extension Family Living Programs or like Family Living on Facebook.

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