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Downplay the Hype

Many teens believe the prom has to be the absolute best night of their lives, which can build up unrealistic expectations and pressure, according to Orange County clinical psychologist Alexa Foster. “In reality, the prom is just one of many memorable moments in a teen’s life,” she says. She advises parents to convey to their kids that the main purpose of the prom is to have fun with friends and celebrate the end of the year. The more teens can put the prom in perspective, the more relaxed they’ll be about it.