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Empowering Teens: Nurturing Self-Value and Body Positivity

Joan Denizot

Updated: Oct 27, 2023


Happy, plus size, young women throwing cowboy hat at the camera.

Navigating the turbulent waters of adolescence can be challenging, especially for teens who are grappling with self-esteem and body image issues. As parents, caregivers, or mentors, it's crucial to provide guidance and support to help teenagers find value within themselves. In this blog, we'll explore effective strategies to empower teens, foster body positivity, and help them discover their self-worth.


1. Open Dialogue and Active Listening

Initiate honest conversations with your teen about their feelings, concerns, and self-perceptions. Create a safe space where they can express themselves without judgment. Listen actively, empathize with their struggles, and assure them that their thoughts and emotions are valid.


2. Promote Self-Compassion

Encourage teens to treat themselves with the same kindness and understanding they extend to others. Help them understand that everyone has imperfections and setbacks, and it's essential to practice self-compassion. Teach them to replace self-criticism with self-affirming thoughts.


3. Embrace Individuality

Guide teens to recognize that their value isn't tied to conforming to societal norms or external expectations. Celebrate their unique qualities, talents, and passions. Show them that embracing their individuality is a source of strength and authenticity.


4. Educate About Media Literacy

Help teens critically analyze media messages and images that often perpetuate unrealistic beauty standards. Teach them to recognize digital manipulation and understand that what they see in media isn't always an accurate representation of reality.


5. Encourage Positive Self-Talk

Empower teens to challenge negative self-talk and replace it with positive affirmations. Teach them to reframe their inner dialogue by focusing on their strengths, accomplishments, and positive qualities.


6. Cultivate Resilience

Teach teens that setbacks and challenges are a natural part of life. Help them develop resilience by reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth. Encourage them to learn from their experiences and use them to build a stronger sense of self.


7. Lead by Example

Model self-acceptance and body positivity in your own life. Demonstrate healthy behaviors, emphasize your strengths, and openly discuss your own journey towards self-value. Your authenticity will inspire them to do the same.


8. Promote Healthy Self-Care

Encourage teens to prioritize self-care as an essential part of valuing themselves. This includes engaging in activities that bring them joy, maintaining a balanced routine, practicing mindfulness, and nurturing their mental and physical well-being.


9. Focus on Achievements Beyond Appearance

Shift the focus from appearance to accomplishments and qualities that transcend looks. Celebrate their academic achievements, hobbies, talents, and relationships. Show them that their value extends far beyond their physical attributes.


10. Getting Support

There are many people and organizations that work with teens to help them feel better about themselves. It’s such an emotional time of life and there’s so much to process. Life as a teen is very challenging. Carrying around weight can make them a target for other’s mocking or insensitive comments. Finding compassionate support, whether it’s church group, a weight loss group, individual therapy, group therapy, a community club, or one-on-one time with a special person in their life - can make a huge difference in their lives.

As their parent, there are many ways that you can support this independent action. As long as what they ask for is something you feel is safe and could be helpful for them, do it as much as possible.


11. Seek Professional Help When Needed

If your teen's struggles with self-value and body image become overwhelming, consider seeking professional help. Therapists or counselors with expertise in adolescent psychology and self-esteem can provide valuable guidance.


Empowering teens to find value within themselves is a journey that requires patience, empathy, and consistent support. By implementing these strategies, you can play a significant role in nurturing their self-esteem, fostering body positivity, and helping them embrace their uniqueness with confidence.

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