Teens: Generally speaking, it is not helpful to accuse your parent of being a crappy parent in order to get what you want. Let me clarify with an example.
Teen: I’m going to Sam’s tonight.
Parent: Excuse me? Were you asking me if you could go somewhere tonight?
Teen: Yes, I’m asking to go to Sam’s house tonight.
Parent: You need to ask me for permission. Not TELL me what you are doing.
Teen: I AM asking! I’m asking to go to Sam’s house! What don’t you understand?
Parent: I understand this just fine. I understand that you’re telling me where you’re going tonight!
Teen: You always do this! You never let me go anywhere! You’re always on such a power trip! You’re a control freak!
Parent: You’re not going anywhere because you’re being so disrespectful right now. This conversation is OVER.
Boom… endofstory. You’re now stuck at home tonight. A word to the wise: Parents like to be asked for permission.
Additionally, telling them what a horrible parent they are (while asking them for permission to go somewhere) is not going to get you what you want. Nor is it going to help your relationship with your parent.
Teens, try to avoid starting your sentences with, “You always,” and “You never.” You’ll get further in your conversation.
Has avoiding these words helped you in conversation with your parents?
