Talking to your Teen Tip #6
Money Etiquette
Are you curious about the proper way to discuss money outside of your family setting? Are you afraid of being the biggest buffoon on the block when it comes to discussing money?
You’re right when you recognize that the subject of money can be touchy. But the truth is, times have changed. Many things that used to be private are now found on the internet in a matter of seconds.
Anyone can discover the price of your house and even view your house on the internet. Your income can be closely estimated by an internet search with just a job description.
But that doesn’t mean that you should feel required to discuss your financial matters with anyone. And no one should bully you into answering a question that you don’t want to answer.
Money is just like religion and politics. First, you don’t have to answer. Without being rude, you can mention that “whatever” is a topic that you don’t discuss. Or you can inject humor in your answer (“whatever I make, I’m not interested in buying a castle!”), or respond with your own question (“why do you ask?”).
You probably feel more comfortable talking about money with friends or family who you trust. The more public the topic (for example, the cost of college tuition) the more appropriate it may be to discuss.
So what will you teach your teen about proper money etiquette? First, she (or he) should not discuss your family’s financial matters with anyone! That’s your business and no one else’s business.
Your teen can discuss and learn about money without discussing her own personal finances. She can discuss an example found in a book or article (where other people’s finances are exposed). Or she can make up scenarios to use as examples.
Teens should be taught not to ask questions of others that they would not want to answer themselves. And they should never feel bullied into exposing their finances.
So teach your teen some good answers to keep in her mind when asked rude questions. “I don’t discuss my financial situation with anyone other than my parents.” “It’s none of your business.” Remind your teen that a true friend wouldn’t ask rude questions.
And be your teen’s best example by keeping your family’s financial situation private within your family.
Remember, the more that money is discussed (PROPERLY!), the more that it is understood.
