When individuals hold opposing viewpoints: How can you assist your child adapt during this election season?

Some children (and adults) have difficulty accepting the viewpoints of others. They believe that they are always correct and that everyone else is incorrect. This is especially true for children who have difficulty thinking in a flexible manner.

People with flexible thinking may perceive things from a variety of perspectives. Children who struggle with it have a hard time comprehending that not everyone thinks the same way. And this might generate issues during election season, when kids hear people disagreeing and shouting at home, at school, on the news, or on social media.

“Kids who struggle with flexible thinking are frequently brilliant at debating, which demands them to take a position and keep it,” says Ellen Braaten, PhD, director of the Learning and Emotional Assessment Center. “Outside of debate club, this can make it difficult to deal with opposing viewpoints.”

Not all children like debating their points of view. When individuals disagree, though, they may become irritated. Even if someone quietly expresses a different viewpoint, they may mistakenly believe they are furious. Kids may be concerned that those who differ, especially family members, do not like or love one another.

So, how can you teach your child that people have various points of view and that it’s okay if they don’t always agree? These suggestions will help your kid cope.

Give context.

Kids don’t always understand the context of what they’re hearing or saying. It can assist in putting things into perspective. For instance, you may say something like:

• “Did you know that in many communities, women, particularly women of color, earn far less than men?”

• “Aunt Rose aided in the planning of a demonstration against racial injustice.”

• “Uncle Steve recently lost his job and is concerned about the economy.”

Hear them out.

Children must be able to express their thoughts and feelings. They must, however, learn how to respectfully argue and discuss opposing viewpoints. “I hear what you’re saying,” you might tell your youngster, “but I have a different perspective that I’d want to share with you.”

It’s also crucial to pay attention. Your child’s anxieties might be reflected in his or her opinions. Right now, children may be thinking about a lot of “what ifs.” “What if I disagree with Dad and make him even more stressed?” Assist your kid in being aware of and discussing feelings and emotions.

Be a mentor.

Children might have a lot of empathy for a cause, but not for a buddy who doesn’t share their feelings. At home, demonstrate tolerance and understanding by demonstrating how you resolve disagreements: “I disagree with Uncle Fred, but I don’t want him to feel guilty for expressing his thoughts. That’s why I let him complete his sentence.”

Take a different path.

When youngsters believe their opinion is the only one that makes sense, saying “Let’s agree to disagree” doesn’t work. Instead, shift the conversation’s focus while reassuring them that you aren’t ignoring them.

“This has been a nice discussion, and I can tell you have strong feelings,” you can remark. Grandma has a distinct perspective on things. We may discuss it further at a later time. But for the time being, let’s do something we all enjoy.”

Explain that it’s fine to have a disagreement.

Children must understand that it is natural for people to hold opposing viewpoints. Disagreement does not necessarily imply that anything is incorrect.

“Aren’t there instances when you’ve gotten into a fight with me or one of your friends?” ask your youngster. Doesn’t that imply you don’t love or care about us? People can disagree, but it has no effect on how they feel for one another.”

Whether they wish to express themselves or avoid confrontation, there is one thing that all children should understand. Using harsh, disrespectful, or abusive words, or yelling, is never acceptable. It’s unethical if someone else does it, or if they do it themselves.

There are certain things you can do to assist your youngster understand events and issues from multiple perspectives. Try these activities (LINK TO BLOG A)  to improve your ability to think in a flexible manner. Also, ask your youngster to assist you in brainstorming alternative approaches to an issue you’re working on.