What Pro-Vaccine Parents Should Consider When Facing Vaccine-Hesitant Teens

The pandemic has undeniably brought forth a myriad of challenges and debates that few could have predicted. It’s understandable, given that no one expected a global health crisis to unfold over several years. Issues that should have been straightforward – such as wearing masks or maintaining social distance – have become contentious topics. Now, with the introduction of a vaccine, we find ourselves in a new realm of disputes. For instance, who would have thought that a maternity ward would close due to staff resignations over vaccination mandates? Or that a restaurant hostess would be assaulted for merely requesting proof of vaccination? Beneath these dramatic events lies a quieter struggle within families, particularly between pro-vaccine parents and their vaccine-hesitant teens.

In my city, anti-vaccine rallies have drawn crowds of parents waving signs proclaiming “my body, my choice.” Among the festivities, children enjoyed face painting and other distractions, likely drawn more by the treats than any genuine stance against vaccination. As a result, these kids, once hesitant, may have been swayed, but the underlying issue remains: how do pro-vaccine parents engage with their teens who resist the shot?

Finding common ground with older children can be challenging, as disagreements on various issues are common. However, a teen’s reluctance towards vaccination often stems from more than just defiance. For instance, a 16-year-old named Max shared his experience with a journalist, detailing how his parents’ distrust of the vaccine escalated into conflicts that left him feeling marginalized. Max’s mother dismissed trusted medical guidance in favor of dubious claims from social media, leading to a breakdown in communication.

Such narratives are increasingly common today, illustrating the strains that differing viewpoints on vaccination can place on parent-child relationships. Unlike typical disputes, the stakes here are significantly higher, especially as COVID-19 has shown that it can affect children too.

Initially, it seemed that COVID mainly impacted older adults and those with pre-existing conditions. However, as the virus has evolved, so too has the understanding of its effects on younger populations. Pro-vaccine parents resonate with health experts who emphasize that no parent should have to lose a child to a preventable illness when a safe and effective vaccine is available.

What Can Parents Do?

So, what can parents do when faced with a resistant teen? The frustration of feeling powerless to protect their child can be overwhelming. Yet, it’s important to recognize that many teens have legitimate concerns, even if parents may not fully grasp or agree with them.

Needle Phobia and Vaccine Hesitancy

Many dismiss what they perceive as “irrational fears,” but phobias are very real. Needle phobia, or trypanophobia, can be a significant barrier to vaccination. Pharmacist Anna Taddio highlights that for some, the fear of needles can be so intense that it directly influences their decision to avoid getting vaccinated. To help address this, Taddio suggests techniques to mitigate these fears.

The Invincibility Complex in Teens

It’s easy to forget how reckless one can be during their teenage years. With a sense of invincibility, many teens don’t perceive the threat of the virus as a serious concern. Neuroscientist Gary Wenk explains that the immature development of the frontal lobes contributes to this lack of judgment. Consequently, many vaccine-hesitant teens may not see the need for vaccination when they believe they are naturally immune.

Skepticism Among Youth

Teens are particularly susceptible to misinformation—often more than adults. Their developing critical thinking skills leave them vulnerable to misleading information circulating on social media. While trusted medical professionals assert the safety of vaccines, platforms like TikTok and Facebook can spread contradictory narratives that may sway their opinions.

As of recent data, only a fraction of teens are fully vaccinated. With many kids falling into the category of vaccine-hesitant, it’s crucial for pro-vaccine parents to actively engage with their children. Open dialogues, addressing their doubts, and providing factual information could be pivotal. If necessary, a more assertive approach may be needed to encourage vaccination, as it is a battle worth fighting.

This article originally appeared on November 12, 2021.

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In summary, navigating the challenges of raising vaccine-hesitant teens requires patience, understanding, and open communication. As pro-vaccine parents, it is essential to engage with your children thoughtfully and empathetically, addressing their fears and uncertainties while providing them with accurate information.