Balancing act: Benefits and drawbacks of teen employment

(Cushing ISD) – Recently, my 16-year-old son has convinced me that he should work a part-time job. As a parent, I drug my feet and have put the issue off for many months as I researched and considered the benefits and drawbacks of him working during the school year. The debate over whether teenagers should engage in part-time employment is unique for each parent, child and situation. I would like to share what I considered before finally allowing him to move forward with getting a part-time job. There are undeniable benefits to teens holding jobs, such as developing a sense of responsibility and a heightened sense of self, but there are also potential downsides. Some drawbacks could include increased stress, being placed in a situation the teenager is not developmentally prepared for or mature enough to handle, and a perceived hastening of the end of childhood. Striking a balance between the positives and negatives is crucial for ensuring that the teen’s employment remains a positive and enriching experience. Related Stories Development of Responsibility and Self The positive aspects of teen employment extend beyond the immediate financial gains. Part-time employment provides adolescents with a unique opportunity to develop a sense of...