While living inside families offers comfort to both parents and children, it can also be a source of stress, as problems affect all members, not just the adults. Seeing how the current economic crisis places pressure on the working class, in that the number of foreclosures increases, and jobs are jeopardized, it's only natural for children, teenagers, and even newborns to pick up on the stress their parents are subjected to.
 

But, because of their young age, they might not be able to cope with it as well as their parents do, which is why psychologists caution the latter to be very receptive about what their children say or do during these rough times. "Parents need to talk with their children and teens because they need time to adjust to changes. But parents also should censor what they say and shouldn't burden their children with adult worries and concerns," said Indiana University School of Medicine clinical psychology assistant professor, Michele C. Thorne, PhD.
 

The scientist, who is also Riley Hospital for Children's Consult Liaison Service clinical director, adds that teenagers, who are especially receptive to family concerns, should constantly be reassured that everything is going to work out fine, and that parents will always be there for them. This gives them a morale boost and helps them get rid of depressive thoughts, which could prompt them to start smoking, use drugs, or even think about suicide.

 
"It's best to talk with your children about what is going on and to explain the family's strategies for dealing with it. You don't want to make your child or teen think you don't appreciate their advice so it's best not to solicit their opinions on things which they are unqualified to make a decision," Thorne added.
 

Television is a constant source of bad news, concerning the state of the economy and the toll this takes on average families. Teenagers should know exactly how their parents plan on dealing with these situations, so as to avoid having their thoughts wander around. This can cause tremendous amounts of stress, which, in turn, affects their quality of life.