Raising a Teen

Raising a Teen

The collection of common customs, ideas, and behavior within a group is known as a custom. Having cultural background helps children get a sense of who they are and where they become. The adolescent stage is important since it marks the transition from childhood to when an individual becomes an adult. There are many emotional and physical developmental changes that teens go through at this stage. Culture can change teens’ development, affecting their identity, social behavior, and separation from their parents (Hoy 2015). Cultural norms influence parental behavior and can impact the upbringing of a child. At times, adolescents who experience different upbringing from their peers tend to be rebellious. My cultural upbringing affects how I carry myself in public and other social interactions.

Growing up as an African American, children are taught the importance of family ties and respect for parental figures. Parents in the African American culture raise children, emphasizing the collectivist culture. Children learn the importance of traits like respect, obedience, and politeness to others, especially their parents and elders. Unlike Japan, the crime rate in America is significantly higher (Hoy, 2015). Children in society are taught to be careful and avoid getting around, especially during the nighttime. African American culture is highly rooted in religion, and children as parents emphasize the importance of children attending church on Sundays. Collectivism is one of the main traits that contribute to the way African American individuals behave (Bernstein, 2016). Family ties are an important aspect of this culture. Children are taught at an early age that family is forever and is the most important aspect of their lives. Throughout adolescence to adulthood, one develops high self-esteem, responsibility, and self that comes from the perception of social support.

References

Bernstein, R. (2016). Parenting around the world: Child-rearing practices in different cultures. https://www.tuw.edu/health/child-rearing-practices-different-cultures/

Hoy, Selena. (2015, September 28). Why are little kids in Japan so independent? Bloomberg News. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-09-28/in-japan-small-children-take-the-subway-and-run-errands-alone#:~:text=Parents%20in%20Japan%20regularly%20send,a%20task%20for%20their%20family