Motherhood: Mom-Teenage Son Conversations That Matter (5)

Helping Him Take Responsibilities

He knocks over a glass of water, blames his younger sibling. He forgets his assignment, blames the teacher. He leaves his chores undone, blames being tired. You’ve seen it—maybe more than once—and deep down, you know: he’s dodging responsibility.

Mama, the truth is, a responsible man starts with a boy who learns to own up early. And in today’s world—where excuses, blame-shifting, and entitlement are everywhere—teaching responsibility is not optional. It’s urgent.

So how do we do it?

Start small. When he messes up, don’t rush to defend him or blame someone else. Instead, ask:
“What do you think went wrong?”
“What could you have done differently?”
“What can you do to make it right?”

Then explain that real responsibility means owning your actions—even when it’s hard, even when there are consequences. Why? Because that’s what builds wisdom. That’s what helps him think carefully before making future decisions—especially as a husband, a father, and a leader.

Let him know: avoiding consequences today only creates bigger ones tomorrow. But facing the truth now makes him stronger, more trusted, and more respected.

Remind him of David in the Bible. When he sinned with Bathsheba and tried to hide it, everything spiraled. But when he finally owned his sin and cried out to God in repentance, God restored him. His story teaches us that even when we fall, responsibility opens the door to healing.

Also share real-life examples like Barack Obama, who often speaks openly about the weight of fatherhood and leadership, showing that accountability is strength, not shame.

Galatians 6:4–5 says— “Each one should test their own actions… for each one should carry their own load.”

Are you raising a son who avoids consequences—or one who faces them with courage and maturity? Kindly share.