By David M. Benson, MSW, LMSW, ACSW
Q: Now that school is over, how can I motivate my teenager to seek employment, instead of sitting around the house playing video games?
A: This is a question I hear often from the parents of my adolescent clients. First, teens need to identify short and long-term goals, then tie their goals to methods of accomplishing them - like getting a summer job. It is beneficial for the parent(s) to sit with the teenager while he/she writes their list of goals and interests. If your teen has specific, clear and realistic goals, he/she will have a sense of control and purpose for employment. This process of defining may assist your teenager to identify not only areas of interest, but also items the teen may want to purchase for themselves. Teenagers all think about driving and wanting a car, planning for trips or buying special clothes that are not always in the family budget. By earning their own money, a job teaches them responsibility and helps to make their goals more realistic and attainable.
The parental role in this process is one of a "coach" and motivator. If your coaching is effective, the teenager will make more independent, responsible decisions. As parents, it is often easier for us to simply repeat to our teens, "you need to get a job." However, if a parent is able to be the coach or motivator, the results are almost always more favorable. The key to this process is to allow the teen to feel some control and motivation to want to be employed.
Be aware that the thought of employment often scares teenagers. Some do not know their talents, or believe enough in themselves to be employed. Being employed for the first time is a very anxious moment for teenagers. This is one of the main reasons why teenagers will not seek employment. The parent can assist by helping the teen identify their strengths and weaknesses, as well as making suggestions for employment opportunities that promote success for your teen.
The following list includes the most popular employment opportunities for teens:
- Food Services
- Retail Stores
- Yard Maintenance
- Tutoring
- Car Washing
- Parks and Recreation Departments
- Pet Services
- Babysitting/Care Giving
- Library
David M. Benson, MSW, LMSW, ACSW is a licensed clinical therapist with over 15 years of experience and has been in private practice for 5 years in Grosse Pointe Farms. He works part-time at Henry Ford Cottage Hospital's Psychiatric Unit and is a member of The Family Center's Association of Professionals. Contact him at EastShore Counseling Services (313) 447-5779, email Info@DavidBensonTherapy.com or visit www.DavidBensonTherapy.com for more details.
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