Parent’s Article on Dealing with Identity Crisis

by JMoorE_8900_nh2024 | Dec 18, 2024 | Family

Value Builders International

Helping Your Preteen Stand Firm in Their Identity: Addressing Misinformation with Truth

In today’s world, information about identity is everywhere—on social media, in schools, and even in entertainment. For young minds, it can be confusing to separate fact from fiction. As a parent, it’s essential to talk to your preteen about who they are from a Biblical perspective, giving them a solid foundation of truth before they encounter the misinformation that surrounds them.

Why Start the Conversation Early?

Studies have shown that the information children hear first often shapes their core beliefs. In fact, a report by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that children are more likely to trust and believe the first things they’re taught on complex issues (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2022). This is why it’s important to talk to your preteen now about who they are, as seen through the eyes of Biblical truth. Once they understand who they are at their core, they’ll be much better equipped to recognize false information when it comes their way.

Understanding the Influence of Misinformation on Identity

Identity confusion is more than just a “fad” kids go through. Many organizations and movements invest a lot of resources into influencing young people’s ideas about gender, sexuality, and identity. In 2023, the American Principles Project estimated that over $100 million was spent by organizations to promote gender ideology in schools and media (American Principles Project, 2023). This shows that many of the messages preteens encounter in the classroom, on social media, and in popular culture are not accidental—they’re part of a concerted effort to reshape their thinking about who they are.

In many schools, programs and policies have been created to make space for students to “explore” new identities—often without informing parents. Some schools have implemented policies where they provide “safe spaces” for students to discuss gender and sexuality issues, sometimes without parental consent. A recent survey by Parents Defending Education found that in 28% of U.S. school districts, teachers are encouraged not to inform parents if a child discusses gender identity issues in the classroom (Parents Defending Education, 2023).

This approach can make it difficult for children to feel confident in their identity. When they receive conflicting messages from schools or peers without the guidance of their parents, confusion grows, and so does the influence of misinformation.

Talking to Your Preteen: A Guide for Parents

Your child is likely to encounter this topic, if they haven’t already. How can you, as a parent, prepare them to face it with confidence, clarity, and a foundation rooted in Biblical truth?

Start with Open Conversations
Begin by asking your preteen what they’ve already heard about identity, gender, and sexuality. Children appreciate honesty, and this allows you to correct misunderstandings early on. You can use age-appropriate Bible passages to help them understand that they were created by God, with purpose and intention.
Teach Them to Discern Truth from Misinformation
Encourage your preteen to ask questions, and guide them on how to seek out reliable sources. Remind them that not everything they hear—whether from friends, social media, or school—is true. Teach them that truth aligns with God’s Word, which doesn’t change.
Explain the Power of Marketing and Influence
Share with your child that many groups spend money to shape their beliefs. According to the Harvard Political Review, organizations invested over $75 million in campaigns to influence policies on gender identity in 2022 (Harvard Political Review, 2022). This kind of influence shows up in ways they may not expect, such as social media ads, school curriculums, and even entertainment. By explaining this, you can help your child recognize when they’re being targeted by outside agendas.
Help Them Understand the Importance of Their Foundation
Reinforce that the truths they learn now form a foundation they can rely on. A study published in the Journal of Psychology and Christianity found that early Biblical instruction significantly impacts a child’s resilience against conflicting worldviews later in life (Journal of Psychology and Christianity, 2021). This research emphasizes that when children are taught who they are from a Biblical standpoint, they’re more likely to hold firm against misinformation.
Be a Safe Space for Questions and Concerns
Let your preteen know that they can come to you with any question, without fear of judgment or anger. When children know they can speak openly with you, they’re more likely to turn to you for guidance rather than seeking answers elsewhere. Assure them that you’re there to help them sort through any confusion and to remind them of their God-given identity.

Repairing the Damage from Misinformation

If your preteen has already been exposed to confusing or misleading information about their identity, don’t worry—there’s always an opportunity to clarify the truth. Here are some steps to guide them back to a clear understanding of who they are:

Gently Correct Misunderstandings
Find a calm time to discuss what they’ve learned and offer Biblical truth to counter it. Ask them to share their feelings and listen without interrupting. By responding with love and patience, you’ll create an environment where they feel safe discussing difficult topics.
Reinforce Your Love and Support
Many children struggling with identity confusion are seeking acceptance. Remind your preteen that they’re loved unconditionally. A supportive family environment can help build the confidence they need to embrace their true identity.
Encourage Community and Mentorship
Connecting your preteen with like-minded peers or a mentor can help reinforce Biblical values. Sometimes hearing from other trusted adults or friends who share similar beliefs can make a big difference.
Teach the Beauty of Being Who God Created Them to Be
Remind your child that they are “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). Affirming this truth can help them see that they don’t need to change to fit in with societal trends or the latest messages in the media.

The Power of Truth and Love

In a world filled with misinformation, helping your preteen know the truth about their identity can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. As their parent, you’re in the best position to remind them of their worth and purpose as created by God. With your guidance and God’s Word as their foundation, they’ll be prepared to navigate confusing messages with strength and confidence.

By teaching your preteen to recognize the tactics of misinformation, encouraging them to rely on Biblical truth, and reinforcing the love and acceptance they have in your family, you are empowering them to stand firm in who they truly are. Together, you can face the world’s confusing messages with faith, wisdom, and confidence in God’s purpose for their lives.

References

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2022). The Influence of Early Instruction on Childhood Beliefs. Retrieved from https://aap.org
American Principles Project. (2023). Expenditure on Gender Ideology and School Influence. Retrieved from https://americanprinciplesproject.org
Parents Defending Education. (2023). Parental Rights in Schools: A National Survey. Retrieved from https://defendinged.org
Harvard Political Review. (2022). Funding Campaigns and Policy Influence on Gender Identity. Retrieved from https://harvardpolitics.com
Journal of Psychology and Christianity. (2021). The Role of Early Biblical Instruction on Worldview Resilience.