Adolescence is the bridge between childhood and adulthood. During this stage, teens experience many changes and may feel unsure about how to behave. It is normal for them to suddenly lose confidence when facing new situations. So, how can this be addressed?

Why Do Teenagers Become Shy?

Shyness is a trait in which someone tends to feel nervous, uneasy, or anxious during social interactions, especially when meeting unfamiliar people. This often appears when children are in new settings.

There is no need to panic if your teen seems shy. Shyness is a natural human characteristic. Anyone can be shy, regardless of age or social background.

Even so, if a teenager lacks confidence and is excessively reserved, this can hold back their growth. Parents should encourage their child to build confidence if they notice signs of persistent shyness.

Verywell Family reports that shyness can be influenced by genetic factors. Teens who grow up in families where shyness is common may also become shy.

In addition, teens raised in overly protective environments or who have had negative experiences when trying new activities may develop shyness and low self-confidence.

How to Build Self-Confidence in Shy Children

Parents can take several steps to help their children grow into confident teenagers, including:

1. Teach your child to speak confidently with others

For many shy children, speaking with other people, including relatives, can trigger nervousness and worry. To help, guide your child to practice speaking confidently with familiar people first, such as cousins or grandparents.

During conversations, teach your child to make eye contact, maintain an upright and assured posture, engage in small talk, and smile when starting a dialogue. The more they practice meeting others, the easier it becomes for your child to interact with new people.

2. Cultivate your child’s talents

Encourage your child to discover their abilities or spend time on activities they enjoy. Having skills they can develop and take pride in can strengthen their self-confidence.

3. Set an example for your child

If you want your teen to be confident, you also need to model confident behavior when meeting others. Demonstrating calm, friendly communication gives your child a real-life example to follow.

4. Appreciate your child’s efforts

Constant criticism can erode a child’s confidence. Remember that your teen needs time and a gradual process to work through feelings of shyness and self-doubt.

Always acknowledge your child’s efforts when they try to overcome these feelings. With support and motivation from you, they will feel more encouraged to keep trying.

5. Teach assertiveness

Shy and insecure children may be more vulnerable to bullying from peers. Teach your child to speak up so they feel comfortable expressing thoughts and feelings clearly and politely.

Shyness is not inherently negative and is common for everyone. However, teenagers who are shy and lack self-confidence may avoid social activities because they fear meeting others and worry about how they will be perceived. Without realizing it, this can limit a teenager’s potential.

For this reason, parents should continue supporting their children to develop their strengths and practice being courageous when interacting with new people.

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