The pressure for teenagers to be “authentic” can sometimes leave them in a tricky spot. This video uses the metaphor of a front stage and back stage (very loosely adapted from the work of social psychologist Erving Goffman) to reassure 10to20s that they are not inauthentic or “two-faced” for simply being polite to people who rub them the wrong way. You can show this Dear Teenagers video to your teen, watch it alongside your teen, or use it for guidance on how to talk with your teen about authenticity. Looking for more? Adults can watch the Untangling Family Life video “How to Help 10to20s with Social Friction” here.
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