Authors : Indira A. Budhe
Page Nos : 115-117
Description :
Adolescence, spanning roughly from 10 to 19 years of age, is one of the most transformative periods of human life. Parents act as the primary socializing agents who influence adolescents’ cognitive, emotional, and behavioral outcomes. In India, where more than 253 million adolescents represent over one-fifth of the population (UNICEF, 2023), equipping parents with appropriate skills is central to addressing rising concerns around academic pressure, digital exposure, mental health challenges, and changing socio-cultural expectations. This research paper examines the spectrum of parenting skills that promote resilience, empathy, self-regulation, and responsible decision-making among adolescents. It draws from a range of studies and programs, including WHO and UNESCO global frameworks, India’s National Education Policy 2020, Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK), and grassroots interventions in Maharashtra, Kerala, and Telangana. The study highlights barriers such as socio-economic inequality, lack of parental awareness, and evolving digital threats. By presenting case studies, statistical evidence, and policy implications, this paper underscores the urgent need for holistic parenting interventions supported by families, schools, and communities to ensure adolescents’ healthy transition into adulthood.
