Tips for Teens on Overcoming Academic Difficulties

Are you a teen that is having academic difficulties? Are you unsure on what you can do to get help? To help understand what are some things that can contribute to academic difficulties for most teens and for tips on overcoming academic difficulties, I have interviewed psychotherapist Betsy Fredrickson, LCSW.

Tell me a little bit about yourself.
"I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and live in Austin, Texas , where I have a Private Practice , Wheatfield Therapy. I specialize in working with teens that are having social, emotional and/or academic difficulties. I have a Masters Degree in Social Work from St Louis University and have been a LCSW since 1998. I have worked in various practice settings over the course of my career. In Baltimore, I was a therapist/supervisor in an inner city school for John's Hopkins. After moving to Austin, Texas, I worked at St. Michael's Catholic Academy as the Guidance Counselor where I provided academic and emotional support to the student body."

What are some things that contribute to a teen having academic difficulties?
"There are many things that contribute to a teen having academic difficulties. Some teens may have an organic disorder, such as depression, ADHD, processing disorder, or dyslexia. Other factors that can contribute to academic difficulties may be problems at home problems, issues related to fitting in at the school among peers and/or being placed in classes that are too challenging academically."

What type of impact can academic difficulties have on a teen's overall life?
"Well, if they are not addressed, the teen can turn to risky behaviors such as drinking or using drugs, sneaking out at night, and not being allowed to participate in sports or drama that may require academic eligibility. If they are too discouraged about their academic situation, they may drop out, which could have a lasting impact on their life."

What are some tips for teens on overcoming academic difficulties?
"Get help as soon as things begin to slip so that the problem does not become too overwhelming. Ask teachers for tutoring help. Talk to the teachers that are involved with the student in their sport or drama events. Teens need to know there are people in the school that can help them. They also need positive reassurance that things can get better with a little effort on the teens part and support from an important adult in their life."

Thank you Betsy for doing the interview on tips for teens on overcoming academic difficulties. For more information on Betsy Fredrickson or her work you can check out her website at www.wheatfieldtherapy.com.

Recommended Readings:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5514040/disciplining_a_rebellious_teenager.html?cat=25">Disciplining a Rebellious Teen

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5673678/how_to_help_your_teen_overcome_depression.html?cat=25">How to Help Your Teen Overcome Depression

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2992358/risktaking_teen_and_parental_behavior.html?cat=5">Risk Taking Teen and Parental Behavior