Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Teenagers’ apathy and reluctance to study are not always linked to laziness. They may be caused by fatigue, stress, difficulties communicating with peers and changes in the nervous system during puberty. This was explained by educational psychologist and author Shamil Akhmadullin, who works with the publishing house Blitzum.
According to the specialist, scolding and pressure from parents can increase a teenager’s resistance and cause them to withdraw further. During adolescence, parental influence on a child changes, making it important for adults to build relationships more sensitively.
Schoolwork is one source of stress. Older students have to take the Unified State Exam (USE), and the prospect of these examinations can cause anxiety about uncertainty and the future.
The academic workload increases, subjects become more challenging, and preparing for final exams requires greater effort. As a result, a lack of interest in studying may sometimes be a consequence of ordinary exhaustion.
Relationships with peers also affect teenagers’ well-being. At this age, belonging to a social group becomes particularly important, while rejection by others can lead to a loss of interest in studying and other activities. The physiological and emotional changes that accompany growing up add to the pressure.
Akhmadullin advises parents to start with an open conversation, avoiding reproaches and lectures. It is helpful to show genuine interest in a child’s hobbies by asking what films they watch, what games they play and what they are truly interested in. This can help parents better understand their teenager and identify activities that might appeal to them.
Suggestions for new activities should take the teenager’s preferences into account. For example, if they enjoy a particular film, parents could recommend the book on which it was based. It is important, however, to let the child make their own choices.
Rather than making persistent recommendations, the psychologist suggests asking questions in a non-intrusive way. Parents could offer options such as a climbing wall, go-karting or floristry courses and ask which activity interests the teenager, even slightly.
Another way to improve communication is to agree on family rules that both adults and children follow equally.
These might include setting aside specific periods without electronic devices, reading before bed and developing other shared habits.
This approach helps teenagers feel that they are treated as individuals who can participate in decision-making and take responsibility for agreements.
According to the specialist, a lack of a clear goal can also undermine motivation to study. If a teenager does not understand why good grades matter, parents should discuss their interests and future plans with them.
For example, if a teenager wants to move to another city, parents can explore universities there together and look into accommodation options. Having a concrete idea of the future they want can help them connect their current efforts with their personal plans.
Akhmadullin also warns against comparing teenagers with other children. Adolescents often already measure themselves against their peers as they try to determine their place in society.
Parents should therefore avoid increasing this pressure. Instead, they should support their children, recognise their individual qualities and acknowledge even small achievements.
Positive attention and recognition can strengthen teenagers’ self-esteem and help them deal with difficulties with greater confidence.
Rather than making constant demands and criticising their children, the specialist recommends building relationships based on trust, respect for the child’s interests and working together to identify goals.
