Some teens think they’re helping their friends by doing their work for them. Others say they cheat because they feel like they’re under immense academic pressure. Often, the pressure to “help” other students stems from the pressure today’s teens feel to succeed. They may think their parents value achievement above all else or they may think getting into college at all costs is more important than honesty.
Top 10 Cheating Talking Points
Whether you suspect your teen may be doing his friends’ homework for them or you’re trying to be proactive in preventing any problems before they start, talk to your teen about some of the risks associated with cheating. These talking points can give you an idea of things you may want to address.
Talking to Your Teen
Hold regular conversations with your teen about cheating. Ask questions like, “Do any of your friends cheat?” “Is cheating a big problem in your school?” or “Do you feel any pressure to cheat on your to try to get ahead?” Listen to what your teen has to say about cheating. Ask your teen what she thinks constitutes cheating in today’s digital world. Cheating can be a little harder to define. Is it OK to use a website that translates your words into a foreign language? Is it cheating if you take a paper off the internet but put some of the sentences in your own words? Solicit your teen’s opinions about these types of questions and then share your own ideas. Keep in mind that it’s important to be a good role model. If you cheat on your taxes or you’re dishonest when you’re returning items to a store, your teen will learn it’s OK to cheat the system. Show your teen the importance of being honest, even when it’s hard, and emphasize that there are consequences for cheating.
