News, Advice, and Tips for Parenting Teenagers

Once they've graduated from high school, many teenagers think they've learned all they need to about life. But even students who have learned a lot during their high school years still need flexible, responsible guidance from their parents.

This issue was addressed in a recent issue of The Village Times of New York:

Is it reasonable for an 18-year-old to stay out till four in the morning? During the summer, what does one do until 4 am? Where does one go? Needless to say, parents need to be flexible in this regard. There should be a curfew that can be adjusted based on what the young person has planned for the evening.

Trust is the key where curfews are concerned. Be flexible unless your teenager begins to act recklessly, or is dishonest about where she's going or with whom. Don't threaten any consequence about which you're not prepared to follow through. Though they won't admit it, most graduating seniors still need (and, in many cases, want) want their parents' guidance and authority.

Is your teen displaying undue anger, hostility or defiance? Don't assume that she's just being "a bad kid." Perhaps your child might be suffering from oppositional defiant disorder -- a treatable condition that may be holding her back from achieving her greatest potential.

Labels: teenagers, high school, guidance, defiance

Posted By: Aspen/CRC