Parents must find out the reasons for their children's stress and bad attitudes
The teenage years can be a difficult time for families, and it's important for them to talk and spend time together
Video games are entertainment, but there may be a point where too much of a thing is bad. Adolescence is the transitional stage where a child becomes an adult. My teenage brother is always arguing with my parents. I’m afraid that one day he might do something bad. I think we are not the only family facing such issues.
My brother has become a gaming addict ever since he met some new “friends”. He argues with our parents when they ask him to study. He says our parents are putting too much pressure on him.
Gaming might be the cause of his bad behaviour. I believe that playing video games for a long time can also affect your eyesight and cause headaches.
I think there are a lot of teenagers who are video-game addicts. We must help them before it is too late.
Parents must find out the reasons for their children’s bad attitude. It could be school pressure, having too much homework, playing video games, having bad friends, and so on. Parents must show that they are willing to help their children. If the problem is gaming, for example, parents could set a time limit – say, 30 minutes – for gaming each day.
Teenagers are going through a confusing time. Secondary school is hard, but that is just how life works.
Hansen Cheng, Diocesan Boys’ School
When hobbies become obsessions: why too much of a good thing can be a bad thing
From the Editor
Thank you for your letter, Hansen.
Adolescence is a difficult time we all have to face. So much is changing within you as you grow up. This is the age when children can develop unhealthy habits that can become problems later in life.
Many students find gaming is a good way to pass the time, but before they know it, three hours have gone by and there’s a lot of catching up to do. This is not good.
In your brother’s case, maybe your parents can arrange a time to have a chat with him? Your brother’s teachers may also be able to help him.
I agree that school is not easy. It’s a big problem for today’s teenagers. They are under pressure to get good marks and fit in with their peers. Apart from having to cope with revision and homework, some of them attend tuition classes or music lessons. Form Six students have extra pressure from the HKDSE.
But there are many ways to relax. You can read a book, listen to music, play sports, or go for a hike.
Doing voluntary work is also a very meaningful way to spend your free time.
Spending time with your family is also important. Remember, time is precious so make sure your time is well spent.
M. J. Premaratne, Sub-editor