If you have teens, you probably already know their self-esteem is fragile. Since this age group tends to focus primarily on outward appearances, they typically measure their self-worth by how they feel they appear to others. Situations ranging from a bad haircut to failing to make the team, can create intense feelings of humiliation and embarassment.

Unfortunately, the opinions of Mom and Dad don't carry the weight they used to. The simple, reassuring words used to comfort them when they were younger, just don't cut it anymore. What, then, can parents do to promote a healthy sense of their teens and self-esteem? Christina McCann, Phd, a licensed psychologist in New York state who specializes in working with children, adolescents and families, offers the following tips:

1. Accept your child for who they are. Try not to be critical, no matter what color they dye their hair or their fashion choices.

2. Go out of your way to tell your teens what you like about them. This means telling them as often as possible.

3. Spend as much one-on-one time with them as possible.

4. Write them a letter telling them what you like and admire about them.

When teens suffer a blow to their self-esteem, they may exhibit symptoms of depression. Some of these symptoms include changes in sleep patterns, low energy, difficulty concentrating, irritability and changes in eating patterns. Dr. McCann advises that it is normal for all of us to suffer mild symptoms of depression from time to time. But if the symptoms affect your child's ability to function, or last longer than a week, a trip to the pediatrician is in order.

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