CRACK THE CODE: Handle Adolescents Effectively

“Half of wisdom is learning what to unlearn.” Larry Niven
A workshop was conducted by Ms. Reshma Bhown (Developmental Psychologist, Special Educator, Consultant -University of Delhi, Academic Counselor – IGNOU & Founder- Prashikshan) on Handling Adolescents Effectively. Although aimed at addressing adolescent issues, it began with a question on self-reflection that aimed to address what we all did during adolescence that we sometimes regret. The session aided in understanding how as educators we forget what adolescent life looks like and how it has changed throughout the years. In order to learn the new age concerns that arise, it is important to let go of the conventional approaches, challenge our thought patterns and unlearn our biases. Ms. Reshma also sought to normalize and create awareness about the presenting concerns in teenagers. She urged educators to understand their own egos and find the root cause of a child’s behavior rather than just focusing on the response. She also emphasized how we take things personally when they actually might not be aimed in such a way and that eventually affects how we are addressing the concerns with teens.
The session helped in identifying various biases educators hold, the mental blocks that come in the way they approach situations, and its impact. The session was an eye-opener and gave several moments of reflection.