Self-regulation vital for adolescents

Teenagers after instant gratification stand a big chance of falling into the trap of drug and alcohol abuse.

This is because many battle to tolerate discomfort or distress, and they are unable to weigh the consequences of their actions, according to Ms Ilze Barnard, a clinical psychologist at Rand Aid Association’s Wedge Gardens Centre.

Ms Barnard described self-regulation as the ability to act in accordance with one’s values and in one’s own long-term best interests, and to calm yourself down, is critical for emotional well-being.

“It is a core strength that helps steer adolescents into healthy adulthood,” she said.

Teenagers who have self-regulation skills are able to set goals and plan their behaviour to achieve these goals. They are flexible and results-driven, according to Ms Barnard.

“Adolescents also rely on emotional, cognitive, motivational and behavioural feedback from their families and friends in order to modify or adjust their strategies and behaviours when unable to initially attain their goals. If the family environment or peer pressure is of a negative nature, it impacts the adequate development of self-regulation strategies,”she said.

Ms Barnard argues that using reflective thought; humans can better control their environment and understand the consequences of their actions, giving them some ability to control their own behaviour.

“Adolescents in ambiguous moral situations, who are uncertain if their behaviour is consistent with their own social and moral standards of conduct, may not be able to see the link between their own unacceptable behaviour and the resulting negative consequences.

“They justify their behaviour or make excuses for their actions to avoid taking blame. Sometimes they even recreate their behaviour in their own minds so that they can live with their actions. They might blame their victims instead of looking at the role they played in any negative outcome and often refuse to see the link between their behaviour and the consequences thereof,” she said.

Self-regulation allows youngsters to adapt to changing situations, reign in on impulsive behaviour and do what is right rather than what they want to.

“The ability to self-regulate needs to be taught from a young age. Children who have mastered this skill and who understand that instant gratification is not always in their best interests, will have the emotional intelligence and focus needed to stand a better chance of resisting alcohol or drug abuse,” she said.

She also highlighted that individuals with lower self-regulatory capacities would also be less likely to maintain moderate use and avoid negative consequences. The effect of self-regulation on all areas of a person’s life is well-established.

Ms Barnard said insufficient self-regulation can lead to substance abuse, but it also puts youngsters at risk of unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, gambling, violence, crime, eating disorders, anger control problems, and underachievement in school.

“The negative behaviour patterns established in adolescence are also likely to shape their adult life,” she said.

Wedge Gardens can be contacted on 011 430-0320.