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Managing the Middle

Weekly tips for parents of teens

Managing the Middle is included in our weekly What’s Next? campaign and live on their own page. Designed by middle school parents for middle school parents, each includes tips for managing these interesting years. Each issue includes resources, recommendations, and tips for engaging children in the faith and what the latest trends and research say about your children and their friends.

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Navigating the Teen Years

By parents, for parents—practical tips, faith-filled resources, and research-backed insights to confidently navigate the middle school years.

To receive a new tip each week via email, be sure to subscribe to What's Next? at the bottom of this page.

Talents
Gifts
Recognizing their unique talents and gifts is crucial for teenagers. Studies show that students who feel their talents are recognized are more likely to have higher self-esteem and motivation. For… Read More
Mental Health
Social Awkwardness (due to lack of contact)
Social awkwardness in teenagers, often due to lack of social contact, is a growing concern. Studies indicate that approximately 9.1% of adolescents experience social anxiety disorder, with symptoms peaking during… Read More
Mental Health
Anxiety
Anxiety is a common issue among teenagers, with nearly one in three adolescents experiencing an anxiety disorder. This has been on the rise, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, which increased… Read More
Education
Career
Two in five students aged 15 across OECD countries report having no clear career plans. This uncertainty can lead to stress and anxiety, impacting their mental health. Additionally, 45% of… Read More
Mental Health
Self-Image
About one-third to one-half of adolescents struggle with low self-esteem. This issue is often exacerbated by social media, which can create unrealistic standards of beauty and success. Low self-esteem in… Read More
Identity
Big Questions
Teenagers often grapple with profound questions about identity, purpose, and belonging. For instance, 70% of teens report feeling pressure to figure out their future career paths, while 60% ponder their… Read More
Education
Reading
Less than 20% of U.S. teens report reading a book, magazine, or newspaper daily for pleasure. This decline in reading for pleasure is concerning, especially as teens today spend more… Read More
Technology
Pornography Addiction
According to a recent survey, around 73% of teenagers have watched online pornography, with the average starting age being 12 years old. This early exposure can lead to addiction, which… Read More
Mental Health
Loneliness
Studies show that about 25% of teenagers globally report feeling “very lonely” or “fairly lonely”. This issue has been exacerbated by factors such as increased smartphone use and social media… Read More
Mental Health
Depression
Teen depression affects an estimated one in five adolescents, with symptoms manifesting differently from adult depression – often through irritability and anger rather than sadness. Studies show that depressed teens… Read More
Technology
Phone Use
Teenagers spend an average of 7–9 hours daily on their phones, according to Common Sense Media. Research indicates that excessive phone use is linked to increased rates of anxiety, depression,… Read More
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What’s Next? is the online newsletter for The Institute for Catholic Formation of the Diocese of Bridgeport. We named it “What’s Next?” because change is constant and should be embraced in ministry, even as we strive to be attentive to the moment.