Teen Swearing: What Parents Can Do
2009 November 03 by: Scott
Psychology professor, Dr. Francis Compton, who completed numerous studies in the area of social behavior and swearing, found that 87% of children (ages 12 to 19) used curse words or foul language. When asked to make a list of words, the 855 participants in the research study classified their language as inappropriate. This study, done in 2000, concluded that sometimes harsh or graphic words used by the participants were verbalized to make them feel older or more mature.
Dr. Joanne Briggs, Child Psychologist, states that “swearing and bad language usually comes before age six, and you either totally ignore it or say, that’s not acceptable, we don’t talk that way.”
James O’Connor, author of the book Cuss Control: The Complete Book on How to Curb Your Cursing, claims that “Most swearing is complaining or criticizing, but when parents and teens are battling over profanity, it’s time for a new tactic.” He advises parents to “Stop the yelling and threats and calmly explain how the language really bothers you.”
What Parents Can Do To Stop A Teen From Swearing
Children need to learn at an early age (Pre-school through second grade) that swearing is not acceptable. Most child behavioral specialist agree that talking to your child, not yelling, is the method of choice that needs to be adopted by parents to curb language problems. Other parenting strategies specifically designed to put an end to inappropriate teen language are listed below.
Swearing Is Not Cool
Most English swear words are not only used inappropriately, but having little meaning to justify their use in anger, to be “cool,” or to manipulate. For example, the commonly used word, “bitch,” means female dog. To call someone a female dog in anger is not only inappropriate, but ridicules.
Parent Model Good Language
Parents or other adults who swear or use foul language are only reinforcing its use with children. Swearing often becomes a habit. Like most habits, swearing can be broken within 5 to 7 days of non-use. Make a commitment with your child that you will stop swearing or using inappropriate language together.
