Dealing With Rejection: What's the Best Way?

Rejection is a normal part of life for people of all ages, and dealing with rejection in a positive way is something we all have to learn. People experience rejection in many different areas of life, including relationships, school, extracurricular activities, work, etc. During puberty and adolescent development the feelings young people experience related to rejection can feel overwhelming and upsetting. Here’s how adults can help:

• Make sure young people understand that rejection is going to happen.
• Discuss healthy ways to deal with it.
• Be clear that rejection doesn’t mean there is anything wrong with them or that they shouldn’t take chances in the future.
• Encourage them to focus on healthy and positive ways to deal with rejection.

Learning to accept and respect people’s decisions is a skill that you can help young people learn. Encourage young people to focus on themselves and the positive qualities they possess. You can also suggest that they talk with people they trust about how they are feeling and make time for fun to get their mind off things. Adults can act as guides and be a support system when young people experience rejection.

CONVERSATION STARTERS

As your child grows up and begins to experience rejection, having open and honest conversations about the topic can help them get through some of the negative feelings associated with it.

Here are some ways to start these conversations: