From the Counselling Suite

The Kids are Alright

We’ve all heard it before and may be guilty of it ourselves from time to time (I know I have been, ashamedly). Criticising this generation of adolescents as being selfish, narcissistic, entitled, lazy, defiant, superficial and technology obsessed has become commonplace. In my role as a School Psychologist, I have the privilege of getting to know students and hearing their stories in a 1:1 setting.  They do not view me as a disciplinarian (though this may take some explanation), which admittedly might help me to see different sides to these students; but what I have learned is that this generation have a lot going for them – much more than we tend to give them credit for.

Although this generation of adolescents is often accused of being selfish and self absorbed, in my experience, they are quite the opposite. The adolescents who I have spoken to report that they frequently support their friends through difficulties, that range from mental health issues, to relationship breakdowns, family/friendship conflicts or mood disturbances. This support may be in person, but most of the time it is over the telephone, or online, and can be quite intensive and time-consuming. I have been so impressed by the high level of care and consideration that many students show towards their friends, whose needs they frequently prioritise above their own. Many of them give really sensible advice too. Whilst there may be times when it would be a better option for students to refer their friends to an expert (for example, an online counselling service such as e-Headspace: https://headspace.org.au/eheadspace/), their desire to help others is admirable.

I have also found this generation of adolescents (particularly those in the more senior years) to be incredibly tolerant and open minded. Students have reported to me that racism, sexism and homophobia are generally frowned upon in social circles. Those who promote negative views towards others are apparently in the minority and are often discouraged from doing so. They don’t seem to feel as much pressure as past generations to comply with gender stereotypes either, which allows for much greater freedom of expression. Whilst Millennials/the iGen are often accused of being politically apathetic (arguably it’s hard not to be in the current Australian political climate!); just because they may not align themselves with a political party does not mean that they do not have clear values and strong views on social and political issues. Many socio-political causes have gained public momentum through social media, a youth-heavy forum.  

This generation has a greater awareness of mental health issues and adolescents are much more open about mental health issues than previous generations. How refreshing that students are talking openly about experiencing mental health issues to each other and to their teachers today! At times, this can cause frustration to others (ie. “not another extension…”), but at the end of the day, we need to think, would we question making allowances for a student due to physical health reasons? Probably not! Moreover, many adolescents are unafraid to seek help for mental health issues as needed, which reflects self awareness, insight and assertiveness. This increased openness about mental health issues including help-seeking behaviours will help to reduce the stigma around mental illness. We can only hope for a future when employees around Australia feel comfortable enough to openly request leave for a mental health day.   

At times, I think adolescents are unfairly labelled as “lazy” when in fact, they are disengaged or disinterested. I’ve noticed that for many students, if they cannot see a purpose in doing something, they will struggle to find the motivation to do it. On the other hand, students will work very hard on tasks that they can see relate to their lives in some way, or that they are interested in. Perhaps the Australian Curriculum is not adequately tapping in to the skills that students possess and will be using in jobs that don’t currently exist! Ultimately though, if you can assist students to see the purpose in what they are doing, then they are more likely to work hard at it.

This generation of adolescents are critical thinkers. They will question things and challenge authority if they do not agree with something. This can sometimes present as defiance, as it is not always done in the right ways, highlighting the need for us to teach our young people assertiveness skills. Isn’t it fantastic though, that adolescents are analysing information and have the confidence to express their views, rather than blindly accepting what they are told by authority figures? It is healthy to question things and debate can promote more sophisticated problem solving and creativity. Just think, in an employment setting, do we want our future adults to merely follow everything they are told to do by their bosses, even if they think it’s wrong or unethical?

Of course, these probably sound like sweeping generalisations and there are always exceptions…  Hopefully this has provided some food for thought though. The kids are more than alright – they’re actually pretty great!

Dr Lucinda Clifford

SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST

The Counselling Team is available to advise and support all students and families and can be contacted by email on counselling@bps.sa.edu.au

Parents may also refer their son to the Counselling Team by using the Referral found on the Parent Portal. 

Ms Cathie Oswald

SCHOOL COUNSELLOR (Monday, Thursday and Friday)

Dr Lucinda Clifford

SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST  (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday)