My 13-year-old son does not like company. He neither goes out to play
nor brings his friends home. He only talks to his immediate family
members and cousins his age, but shies away from striking a conversation
with others. He is a normal child otherwise. How I should I get him to
loosen up?
Your son is an introvert and just turned a teenager.If he has been shy till now, this is not going to be the easiest time to change. He is grappling with so much hormonal change already and expecting him to also change his nature can affect his personality for life. Whatever you do, has to be very subtle, sensitive and in consultation with him. Do not try and force or nag him. He will retreat into his shell even more. All you can do is provide a safe environment in which he feels confident. Create opportunities where he can meet more people his age who are sensitive, caring and smart. Be a friend to him and help him share his fears so that you can help him overcome them. There may be many inner demons he is fighting. Help him in that. Be patient and gradually get him to shed his inhibitions.Encourage him to pursue an interest or hobby .That will build his self confidence and give him an opportunity to start conversations. There are special personality development courses which you can suggest to him, but do not force him to take them up. Most importantly , connect with your child and give him the confidence that you are with him all through and he need not feel alone.
Your son is an introvert and just turned a teenager.If he has been shy till now, this is not going to be the easiest time to change. He is grappling with so much hormonal change already and expecting him to also change his nature can affect his personality for life. Whatever you do, has to be very subtle, sensitive and in consultation with him. Do not try and force or nag him. He will retreat into his shell even more. All you can do is provide a safe environment in which he feels confident. Create opportunities where he can meet more people his age who are sensitive, caring and smart. Be a friend to him and help him share his fears so that you can help him overcome them. There may be many inner demons he is fighting. Help him in that. Be patient and gradually get him to shed his inhibitions.Encourage him to pursue an interest or hobby .That will build his self confidence and give him an opportunity to start conversations. There are special personality development courses which you can suggest to him, but do not force him to take them up. Most importantly , connect with your child and give him the confidence that you are with him all through and he need not feel alone.
No comments:
Post a Comment