Free, downloadable resource at the bottom of the blog.
As parents and caregivers, I know you all want the best for your young people. You want them to grow up feeling confident, capable, and ready to take on life’s challenges. But in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing world, creating a sense of psychological safety for young people is more important than ever.
Psychological safety - the assurance that they can express themselves, take risks, and make mistakes without fear of judgment—is a cornerstone of their emotional well-being and personal growth.
Psychological safety is the difference between feeling they either 'don't fit in' or they 'HAVE to fit in', even if it is uncomfortable, and feeling that they 'belong'.
Psychological safety has four key stages: inclusion, learner, contributor, and challenger. These stages align with fundamental needs that, when met, help your child flourish. Let’s take a closer look at how you can nurture these in their lives.
Inclusion: Feeling Accepted and Valued
Every young person wants to feel like they belong. As part of the most diverse generation in history, they’re navigating a world full of differences—and learning how to embrace them. Inclusion means creating a safe space where teens feel accepted for who they are, without fear of judgment.
When young people feel seen and valued, their self-confidence blossoms. They become more comfortable being themselves, which is essential for building healthy relationships and a positive self-image. On the flip side, a lack of inclusion can lead to feelings of isolation and self-doubt. Show them that they’re great just as they are and that diversity is something to celebrate.
Learner: Safe to Ask Questions and Make Mistakes
The teenage years are all about discovery - learning who they are, what they love, and how to navigate life’s ups and downs. But this process requires a sense of safety: they need to know it’s okay to ask questions, try new things, stumble, and get back up again. Sadly, many of them feel intense pressure to succeed and avoid failure at all costs.
Encouraging a growth mindset can make all the difference. When we remind our young people that mistakes are stepping stones to success, they become more resilient and open to learning. Cheer them on as they explore, experiment, and grow, knowing they have your unwavering support.
Contributor: Safe to Make a Difference
Young people thrive when they feel their efforts matter. Whether it’s through school, community projects, or even helping out at home, they need opportunities to contribute and see the impact of their actions. Psychological safety at this stage means showing them that their skills and talents have value—and that their contributions make a difference.
When they feel they’re making meaningful contributions, they develop a strong sense of purpose and motivation. Celebrate their efforts, no matter how big or small, and encourage them to keep shining their light in the world.
Challenger: Safe to Speak Up and Challenge the Status Quo
Young people often have fresh perspectives and exciting, bold ideas. Psychological safety as a challenger means creating an environment where they feel confident voicing their thoughts, asking tough questions, and challenging the way things have always been done. It’s in this stage that they develop leadership skills and learn the value of standing up for what they believe in.
By encouraging them to speak up and advocate for change, we’re helping them build critical thinking and communication skills. Remind your teens that their voices matter and that they have the power to make a difference.
Why Psychological Safety Matters More Than Ever
Today’s young people face unique challenges—from navigating social media to dealing with academic pressures and an uncertain world. While they may be intellectually sharp, they’re often in need of support to develop the emotional resilience and self-awareness that will carry them through life’s challenges.
Psychological safety provides that support. It helps them feel secure, confident, and capable of tackling whatever comes their way. By fostering this safety, we’re setting them up not just for success, but for a life filled with purpose, connection, and fulfilment.
How You Can Help
As parents, educators, and mentors, we have the power to create environments where psychological safety flourishes. Here are some practical ways to get started:
Celebrate Differences: Show your young person that diversity is a strength. Have open conversations about identity, values, and what makes them unique.
Normalise Mistakes: Share your own stories of learning through failure. Create a home or classroom where mistakes are seen as opportunities to grow.
Recognise Effort: Acknowledge and appreciate your young person's contributions, no matter the size. Let them know their efforts matter.
Empower Their Voice: Encourage them to share their ideas and opinions. Let them know it’s safe to disagree and that their perspective is valued.
By taking these steps, we’re not just supporting our young people today—we’re giving them the tools they need to thrive in the future. Let’s work together to create a world where every teenager feels safe, supported, and ready to shine.
References:
Clark, T. R. (2020). The 4 Stages of Psychological Safety: Defining the Path to Inclusion and Innovation.
Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success.
National Scientific Council on the Developing Child (2015). The Science of Resilience.
Download this month's free resources below:
Have questions you would like to ask me? Join my free Facebook Group - Ask Vicky, where you can do just that!
Get regular tips and advice to help you build a better relationship with your teen. Sign up for my newsletter - if you haven't already.
Comentários