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Out-of-control Idol
Combating Your Teen's Negative Celebrity Role Models
By Teri Brown
"Examples would be Lindsay Lohan and the Olsen twins who were much-loved among young girls for the innocent roles they played [The Parent Trap, Full House] in their younger years," Courtney says. "Unfortunately, as they got older they were often in the news for events that tainted their earlier innocence and left their younger fan base confused or disappointed. Since parents can't predict which of these stars will eventually self-destruct in the public eye, their only course of action is to be honest with their kids about their poor behavior and then draw boundaries to limit further exposure. In other words, it might be OK to allow your daughter to watch The Parent Trap, but it would be unwise to buy her the Lindsay Lohan fashion doll."
It's important that parents limit their child's exposure and use teachable moments to discuss possible life lessons on eating disorders, underage drinking, drug use, etc. Take advantage of teachable moments to point out celebrities' flaws and the fallout they are experiencing as a result of their poor choices (usually caught on camera).
And as Evie* of Philadelphia, Pa., points out, there are a few positive role models left. "There are some good teenage role models, such as Raven and Shia LaBeouf," she says.
The problem with teen role models is that they are just teens and capable of making horrendous mistakes. Teaching your teen or preteen that these idols are just human with strengths and weaknesses will go far in negating the influence they have on them.
* Last name withheld to protect privacy.
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