Etiquette for Teenagers

CEBU, Philippines — It’s essential for teenagers to learn how to get along positively with others and show respect when interacting. A solid foundation in good manners and proper etiquette is key when it comes to developing strong social skills. Parents, for sure, want their teens to understand the importance of appropriate behavior as it can directly contribute to the young ones’ success as adults.

The word “etiquette” is French for “little sign” or “ticket,” according to Cindy Post Senning and Peggy Post, authors of “Teen Manners.” As a literal translation, etiquette simply means a collection of little reminders to help people understand how to behave in various situations. Etiquette ensures that people know the kind of behavior that society in general expects; it provides standard rules for appropriate conduct.

The purpose of etiquette isn’t to put on a show with appearances and facades for the benefit of others. Instead, it involves an attitude of respect and concern toward others to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and valued.

Parents and other caring adults shall provide guidance about basic etiquette to growing children, as well as teach the young how to treat others respectfully. Basic etiquette includes table manners, phone etiquette, greeting others, thanking people for gifts received, and computer etiquette. Starting at a young age, children shall learn simple table manners like placing a napkin on their lap, talking politely and eating neatly.

By adolescence, children shall already know and practice cellphone etiquette, which includes setting a cellphone to vibrate mode when in public or with others, and conducting both texting and voice conversations in private. Teens shall be trained in properly greeting someone, which includes smiling, making eye contact and shaking hands.

In receiving a gift, the proper etiquette involves texting or sending a thank-you note promptly. And despite the lack of face-to-face contact in communicating via computers or mobile gadgets, digital etiquette requires being polite and respectful in one’s language. Parents can help their kids develop good manners by demonstrating proper etiquette and respectful behavior in daily life; children learn from their parents’ example.

Young people who don’t have a sense of basic etiquette may feel uncomfortable in social situations. The discomfort can cause shyness or timidity, from a lack of self-confidence, which is a disadvantage in life. It’s also possible that teenagers will attempt to compensate for their discomfort by acting out in ways that are inappropriate or even offensive.

While different situations and places can have different rules of etiquette, the common foundation is still respect. For example, the rules of etiquette in the stands of a basketball game can vary from the rules of etiquette when strolling in the shopping mall. However, the basic principle of treating others respectfully applies in either venue.

At the basketball game, it’s rude to stand up in one’s seat because the people at the back might not be able to see the game. At the shopping mall, it’s rude to run, yell and conduct oneself wildly because it might disturb other shoppers. Everywhere, the Golden Rule holds: “Treat others the way you want others to treat you.” That’s what etiquette is about.

With a solid foundation in etiquette and manners, teenagers will feel self-assured and confident, even in new and unfamiliar situations. This can be particularly important for those who often feel self-conscious and anxious, having trouble acclimating to new situations to which they are unaccustomed. The habit of treating others respectfully and politely can help a lot in developing strong social skills, which is a very important element of success in any life endeavor. (https://living.thebump.com) - Kathryn Hatter