4 of 4

Yes

Write now Article Tools

Teenagers 13-18 are the most likely to want to rebel towards the parents rules. Not because they want to make their parents mad, but simply because they don't have enough freedom to do what they want. An example of being too controlling is, not being able to go to the mall by themselves with a group of friends at 14, 15 years old, with a rule like that it's bound to be broken. Having fun is a main priority to teenagers and going to the mall without a parent is part of it. Wanting your teen to do what you want in school like, join the football team, even when they don't want to , a good thing to do would be loosen up, make them do some kind of activity to get involved but don't push it, let them pick what they want to do. All the stress from forcing them to do something they don't want to do can and will cause problems, either in their future or in the present.

Parents have to remember for a teenager to grow up successful freedom in their personal lives also need to be handled with care. No dating until 16 is an understandable rule but not till 18 is just preposterous. With the teen pregnancy rate at a high, 16 is an okay time to date because of the maturity level they've reached which may help them make healthier choices. However, parents shouldn't have a say-so in who exactly they go out with (age doesn't count), if they want to date the high school jock parents should let the teen do so.

Being too controlling can bring out the worst of the teen, compared to a teenager who doesn't have as many boundaries. If a teen feels neglected or too controlled, they will want to get out and do something fun which normally results in trouble. Speaking as a teen myself, I have had friends who do harmful activities like smoking, drinking, etc, mainly friends that have had strong barriers set by their parents. Although the parents' intentions are normally on the positive side, some things need to be reevaluated.

I personally have a more open barrier, I am allowed to do most things I want as long as I do well in school. I currently make all A's and B's and I don't have controlling parents. Going to the movies, mall, by my self with friends is always ok, and trouble is never a problem for my parents.

Not all teens are the same however and like to abusive their privileges, but still to help would be maybe change the tracks and try and introduce them to something that doesn't have to do with whatever caused the problems. Not trying to take away so many privileges that help a teen feel like they're not in a prison.

Learn more about this author, Caitlin Sawyer.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Are parents overprotecting teens??
We want to hear your view. Write now!