by John Gregory Myers

Created on: November 03, 2008   Last Updated: November 23, 2010

A "pushover parent" has many characteristics, both of which are a result from a psychological and environmental origin. This brings many questions to mind as to the atmosphere in which the teenager in question resides. Whether or not the child is from a good solid home setting or a dysfunctional home, there are many cases, especially in adolescents, where the teenager may experience what experts in the field refer to "separation anxiety disorder".

What is in the mind of a troubled teenager? Do they feel like they are being pushed too hard? Are their grades not good enough? Have they chosen to not participate in a school activities (such as sports, for example) that they are not interested in? Do they want to be a plumber instead of a doctor or lawyer?

Teenagers with this disorder may experience recurrent excessive distress on separation from home or major attachment figures. Therefore, they are feeling "pushed" to lead and proceed a life that conflicts with their desired interest. When these teenagers separate from what may seem a " their destined road to success", therefore, lies the separation. They need to stay focused as far as their and need to stay in focus with them. As mentioned above, many cases of separation disorder tend to stem from families that are "close-knit". The manifestations of this disorder (varying with ages) may result as fear i.e. seeing people peering in their room, monsters under the bed, etc.. The denial of adolescent separation anxiety disorder amongst the teenagers may deny anxiety about separation, and this reflection may be a direct result in a false diagnosis regarding their childs's lack of activities and the reluctance to leave home. This, the parent is unaware they are "pushing" the child toward goals and activities that satisfy the parents, not the child.

I left home once when I was 16 years of age. Sure, it was fun, party, and independencebut, it was short-lived. Though the rules of the household were strict by any means, I wanted to go home. Yes, my father was a pushover; but he wanted the best for me. My two brothers were prime examples of obedience and goals. But as for me, I wanted freedom. I wanted to do as I pleased. That was quite unacceptable coming from a strict military family. But it was worth it...as their was always unconditonal love.

So, after several years of trouble with the law and drug and alcohol abuse as a means of escape, myself and my parents were court ordered for family counseling. That is when my

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