Teenagers today are becoming independent at an earlier age. Managing finances and handling responsibilities before adulthood can be beneficial, but it also comes with challenges.
Teens are gaining independence due to technology, economic pressures, and changing social expectations and traditions. While early responsibility helps build confidence and important life skills, it can also be overwhelming. As a result, experts believe balancing independence with guidance is crucial.
“If a teen is forced into independence too soon, it can lead to stress, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed. However, if done gradually and with support, it can boost confidence and resilience. The key is balance,” said Maia Gallon.
Becoming independent early helps to develop significant life skills such as responsibility, decision-making, and time management. These skills prepare them for adulthood because they help them to handle real-world challenges effectively. Learning independence at a young age can help teens grow into confident and capable adults.
“Becoming independent early helps teens develop important life skills like responsibility, decision-making, and time management. It also builds confidence and prepares them for adulthood by teaching them how to handle real-world challenges,” said Maia Gallon.
Despite the benefits, managing finances can be difficult at a young age. Many struggle with budgeting, overspending, and saving money for emergencies. Understanding taxes, credit, and prioritizing expenses can also be overwhelming without proper guidance.
“As a teen, I struggle to divide my money ,not overspend it, and not save enough for emergencies. I also have difficulty understanding taxes, credit, and how to prioritize expenses like rent, bills, and food,” explained Helena Garcia.
The popularity of technology and social media has contributed to early independence among teens. Being exposed to financial topics online has made many more aware of adult responsibilities. Economic factors have also forced some teens to take on more responsibility at a younger age.
“I think technology and social media expose teens to more information, making them aware of adult responsibilities sooner. Also, many families now rely on teens to contribute financially or help with household tasks due to changing economic conditions,” said Maia Gallon.
“Planes de adulto”, a campaign, helps teens prepare for the realities of adulthood. By managing money, cooking, and working part-time, they grow experience balancing responsibilities. These experiences provide valuable lessons in self-worth and discipline.
“These plans help teens practice real-life responsibilities, like managing money, cooking, or working part-time. They give teens a sense of what it’s like to be self-sufficient and teach them how to balance work, school, and personal life,” explained Catalina Jaimes.
Parents play a key role in supporting their teens as they take on more responsibilities. Teaching financial skills, encouraging part-time jobs, and providing guidance can help them transition smoothly into independence. The goal is to provide support without controlling every aspect of their decision-making.
“Parents can teach financial skills, set a good example, and provide guidance without controlling everything. Encouraging teens to work part-time, open a savings account, or set personal goals can help them transition into independence smoothly,” said Helena Garcia.