Modern Parenting

“I play a lot of video games. It’s a bit annoying when my mom limits my time spent playing video games, but I also understand, as I get distracted easily. You can put a time limit on certain applications or block applications or websites that might not be appropriate. I don’t think parents know how to do this, but they should just google or YouTube it – there are a lot of tutorials online.

My friends, also my online friends, are very supportive of me. For example, I have been a bit insecure about how skinny I am. Yes, they make fun of me here and there, but it’s all in good fun. However, they will also tell me: you look good, or you have gained weight. If something bothers me, I know I can talk to them, and they lift me up.

Since I am a gamer, I also spend time in online communities on Discord. These communities have thousands of people. Yes, some people might try to bully others, but then we can vote to remove them from the group. I feel safe because of this. If someone tried to bully me, I would trace their IP address to find out who they are and where they live. I also take screenshots to have proof if I ever need it. I think involving parents will likely make the bullying worse!”

“My mom once looked at my WhatsApp messages – I didn’t really mind. But I think in most cases teens would feel like you’re invading their privacy. If you have a good relationship with your parents, I don’t think parents need to check your personal things. I have an open relationship with my father. I think it’s easy to talk to him, you know, ‘man to man’. If I was in any trouble, I’d feel comfortable going to him. I think he is a good listener, and I appreciate his advice.

At my school, they have blocked certain applications and sites to help prevent cyberbullying and kids from going on inappropriate websites. I think this is something parents can look into as well. I am not really bothered too much with social media and how it can affect your self-image. My mom often expresses how handsome she thinks I am and takes a lot of photos of me. I do notice that it bothers me when photos that I post get fewer likes than others.”

“I think that I have a very supportive mom and dad. However, I am very independent, and I’m not particularly eager to share a lot – which can lead to butting heads, especially with my mom. I feel that when I share something, she asks a hundred questions as if she is interrogating me. If she didn’t make such a big deal about things, I’d be more comfortable.

As teens, we have different lives and images that we like to present to the world. I present myself differently with my parents, in school, with my friends, and online. I used to have a big fear of failure and put a lot of pressure on myself. I think one day something switched and I felt: this is not worth it – which has affected the way I view schoolwork.

“I used to have a big fear of failure and put a lot of pressure on myself. I think one day something switched and I felt: this is not worth it.”

I do think it’s easy to compare yourself to others on social media. I’ve been trying to love my body more the way it is and doubt myself less. But social media isn’t all bad, I also follow pages that motivate me about fitness, business, and travel.

If I ever become a parent, I want my kids to come to me to talk about drinking or drugs. Instead of getting angry, I’d offer them a safe space and open conversation.”