Parental Problems

The art of communication is natural for all of us, especially high school students who spend hours of the day chatting with friends at school, on the phone, via text message and though instant messenger. However, there is one group that stops a teenager dead in their communicating tracks, the parental unit. As a teenager, talking to your parents can be difficult because it can seem like you are in two different worlds. Allowance, curfew, and dating among other things all weigh heavily on the minds of teens and knowing how to effectively talk to your parents can help bring about strong compromises.

Whether you want to stay out a little later for next week’s dance or be able to attend your best friend's slumber party, write down what it is you’re looking to accomplish. Get all the details. Parents typically want to know information like the location of the party, the times, how you plan to get there and if any other parental chaperones will be in attendance. It’s important to know your information before approaching your parents so they know you are serious. Your lack of preparedness could lead to an immediate no to your request. You want to at least walk away from the situation having them consider letting you go to the party.



Stay on task with your responsibilities. Show your parents you are dependable by doing your chores on time, keeping up with your grades and following your curfew. Your parents will be more comfortable talking to you about making changes if you are showing them that you can already handle the responsibilities you’ve been given. So if you are asked to watch your brother this Friday and that will help extend your curfew by 30 minutes, do it without complaining! Your parents will more than likely be impressed with your maturity.

Schedule a time to speak with your parents. Even though it may not seem like it, your parents are very busy worrying about work and taking care of the home. You want to make sure you don’t disturb your mom while she’s busy paying bills or interrupt your dad when he’s trying to finish a work project. Scheduling time will let your parents know you are serious. Once you sit down with them, go over your list, give them the details they are looking for and hope for the best. Even if you don’t get your way, always remember your parents have “been there, done that” and truly have your best interest at heart. So don’t stress out if things don’t always go your way. Most importantly, try to have an open dialogue with your parents everyday and not just when you need something by talking about everyday events like the track meet yesterday or how their day was at work.

Good luck!

Martine Rouzan
-- Brownstone Team