Colman Noctor: Teenagers need a sense of belonging — not entertainment

Young teenagers are seeking experiences that help them feel capable and competent — they want to be treated as emerging adults

The feeling of being part of something larger than themselves reflects a broader challenge facing many young people today. Picture: iStock

MANY parents fear their teenage children’s long break from school during the summer holidays. 

In the past, they often worried about their children repeatedly saying: "I’m bored". Now, they’re concerned because their children are becoming increasingly isolated by watching screens in their rooms day in, day out.