April 16, 2012 by middleearthnj Everyone wants to feel they
belong. All humans desire a connection with someone who cares
and to feel they are part of something bigger than themselves.
Teens are no exception; in fact, since adolescence is such a
radical time of change, the need may be even more prevalent. If
young people do not have their need for belonging met in a
healthy place – with family, appropriate friends, clubs, sports,
etc. – they will get it in an unhealthy place – with
inappropriate friends, drugs, gangs, etc. The satisfaction teens
experience within groups contribute to feelings of security and
support. Groups offer teens the opportunity to share ideas and
interests, to demonstrate their abilities, and to gain personal
recognition, all of which contributes to increased self-esteem.
How to Create a Strong Sense of Belonging The best way to
develop a strong sense of belonging is to create a community
within your family. To accomplish this, parents should value
their teens, support them in their ac