Why do children need attention?
Any parent that pays attention closely to their children can see right away how children react to attention from others, especially from those close to them. Attention for children is a way for them to feel security and feel loved and wanted. There are some that would argue that although children need a certain amount of attention, it isn't as critical in their development.
They argue that children inherently possess certain traits, personalities, and dispositions regardless of the influence of their parents and others. They seem to feel that the overall attention given and the parent involvement are less important than their "natural self."
One Father's Advice
On the other hand, others think that the above mentioned way of thinking couldn't be farther from the truth. One father said this: "If I only based my opinion's on my involvement in my own children, I could testify to the importance for children to receive attention and have others show interest in how they feel, what they think, and very importantly, who they are or how important they are. Paying attention to children can make the difference in how a child turns out in life, either positive or negative."
Teenagers
Children need attention from their parents because that is how they feel safe and secure. It is the most essential form of positive reinforcement. However, when children begin adolescence and enter their teenage years, they are earnestly searching for who they are and where they fit in. They crave acceptance and if they have experienced a lack of attention or interest from their parents, they will seek acceptance wherever they can find it. Frankly, that is a big part as to why gangs and other criminal organizations are formed.
Of course not all teenagers decide to take things that far. However, even teens from relatively stable homes can struggle in certain areas of their life and can make decisions that can affect them the rest of their lives. Many times parents are not aware of the situation their teen is in until it is too late and certain consequences can't be avoided. For this reason it is so important for parents to spend time with their children and listen to what they have to say. As these children grow up into teenagers continue talking and more importantly listening to them. If your teen knows that they can approach you, your time spent with them early in life will pay huge dividends later when they need life changing advice.
Development
Studies show that children who receive regular attention from their parents are more intelligent, sociable, and do not have as many learning problems (ADD, ADHD) than those who do not receive regular attention from their parents. It would seem that any parent, after hearing those statistics, would want to give their children all the attention in the world.
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