24: Identity crisis? Why identity is such an issue for teenagers. Also, stinky teens and what we can do about it.

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We've all heard about the phenomenon of a midlife crisis, but it's the teenage years when we first really become aware of our identity.

For some, the sense of who we are beneath the roles we play is never a big issue. For others, the shift in perception can result in all sorts of problems. Battles at home if they're boxed into an identity they feel they don't fit, or difficulties at school where trying to fit into a social group can mean losing track of who they really are.

Helping our teens to navigate the issue can be made harder by our own struggles with the concept of identity and fears of losing the child we love. We try to unpack some of the issues.

For supporting material see Rachel's blog on our website:
https://www.teenagersuntangled.com/blog/flirting-with-your-self/

Also, any teacher of junior school kids will tell you that one of the key ways they distinguish each other's clothing is by the smell. Yes, it really is a thing. When they hit the teen years, sniffing a garment can result in an unpleasant shock. Some teens respond to their new, distinct odours, by washing diligently. Others seem oblivious, joyously marinading in their own unique perfume.

We talk about the issue of smelly teens, and how to deal with a girl who rarely showers. 

RESOURCES:
Identity
https://www.choosingtherapy.com/identity-crisis/
https://www.harleytherapy.co.uk/counselling/who-am-i-identity-crisis.htm
https://aspiroadventure.com/blog/why-is-teen-identity-development-important/#:~:text=Identity%20formation%20in%20teens%20is,most%20of%20their%20adult%20life.
The 8 stages of development Eric Ericson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYCBdZLCDBQ&t=28s

Smelly teens
https://www.verywellhealth.com/why-teens-wont-take-a-shower-4089615#:~:text=Poor%20hygiene%20can%20lead%20to,or%20bullied%20for%20looking%20unkempt.
https://www.empoweringparents.com/article/poor-hygiene-in-children-my-kid-stinks-help/#:~:text=Focus%20on%20What%20You%20Can,want%20to%20be%20around%20them.

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I don't have medical training so please seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping.

My email is [email protected] The website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact us:
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Susie is available for a free 15 minute consultation, and has a great blog:
www.amindful-life.co.uk