How can mothers back daughters in path of growth?

Pars Today- The period of adolescence for girls is accompanied with physical, emotional and social changes which can be challenging. The emotional support of mothers- as the closest persons to daughters- is very vital in this juncture of their life.

Mothers, as the immediate role model for daughters' behavior, leave great impact in the formation of their identity. Mothers' behaviors, views and values affect daughters directly. If mothers teach self-confidence and independence, daughters will enter the society with a stronger and more independent identity.

Emotional relation: deep and effective bond

Emotional relation between a mother and her daughter is very important in adolescence. This relation helps daughters be safe and secure and feel that they are supported. Mothers listen to their daughters and understand their emotions, can help them to recognize their identity better and be stronger in challenges.

Strict restriction prohibited!

Strict restrictions, such as constant control on activities and restriction of social interactions, will often cause the reverse effect. According to the psychological studies, teenagers, under pressure of parents' control, may embark on telling lies in order to keep their privacy, for instance on their friends and activities. This conduct will not only undermine mutual mother-daughter trust, but also impede the growth of decision-making and independence skills in them.

Teaching instead of control

Parents can teach their daughters the skills of confronting hazards, such as dealing with unsafe situations or conscious decision-making, rather than restricting them. These teachings strengthen self-confidence and self-sufficiency and make daughters ready for future. Creation of safe climate to express feelings is an investment for emotional health of families. Mothers can build up stronger relations and more developed individuals through listening, respect and open dialogue.

Teaching living skills: key to success

Mothers can cause their daughters enter a larger world with teaching them living skills. Skills such as tackling problems, decision-making and time management will help daughters act more successfully in the course of growth and prosperity. These skills will not only help them shape their identity, but also give them self-confidence.

Supporting talents and removal of weak points

Every daughter has unique talents and abilities. Mothers can help them discover their talents and overcome their weak points through encouraging and guiding them. This support will bolster their self-confidence and motive and create positive bond between mother and daughter.

The Messenger of Mercy, Prophet Mohammad (Blessings of God upon him and his progeny) said about daughters, "He who has a daughter and trains her properly, teaches her knowledge well, lets her enjoy plentifully the bounties God has granted him, that daughter will be the shield for her parents against the hellfire."

RM/ME