Since forever, one of the hardest things for a teenager to do is learn how to deal with parents to see her as a maturing adult. Teens get frustrated when, after taking on the added responsibilities of driving, getting a job, worrying about college, and dealing with the opposite sex, they are not rewarded with more respect at the dinner table. There seems to be reluctance on parents part to give up control and trust their children's judgment. A lot of the whining and storming around occurs when both sides shut down in anger. What can you do to learn how to deal with parents? It's not half as hard as you think. Pick and choose among the dozen following suggestions on how to deal with your parents, and we guarantee more bonding time ahead.
How to Deal with Parents
Talk about yourself. You might think they know more about you than they do. Tell them what you like and what you don't. You be the expert on you.
How to Deal with Parents
If they get on your case and concentrate more on your shortcomings than you can stand, switch the subject. Ask them questions about who they were at your age and what they wished they handled better when they were kids. Give them the respect of listening carefully to their answers. Your undivided attention is a gift for them.
How to Deal with Parents
If they criticize you, ask them what experiences they've had which led them to that opinion. Then discuss the issue calmly. Try hard not to become defensive.
How to Deal with Parents
When you know it's coming, ask for their advice before they give it to you. If they realize you value what they're saying, they might be more sympathetic and give you more leeway.
How to Deal with Parents
Secrets and lies lead to more secrets and lies. Life is complicated enough without having to remember the stories you make up. Telling your parents the truth might feel harder at the moment, but it's so much easier in the long run. Try to avoid hiding anything important from them.
How to Deal with Parents
Ask them to share family stories from when you were little. If you behaved badly in some, apologize and thank them for their patience.
How to Deal with Parents
Parents are not mind readers. Let them know whether you need cheering up, advice or help. Most parents enjoy feeling needed, and all parents want you to consider them good at their job. Think of any expertise or information they might have and give them the opportunity to feel useful. Understanding exactly what it is you need will help them become the best parents they can be.
How to Deal with Parents
Find things to thank them for, especially things that happened a while ago and went unnoticed. Don't wait for an occasion; give compliments randomly.
How to Deal with Parents
Don't criticize them to others. Getting into the habit of always finding them at fault sets up an adversarial relationship. Although it might not seem that way, no one loves you more than they do. Familial bonds last a lifetime and deserve to be spoken about without venom.
How to Deal with Parents
Try walking a mile in their shoes. Think of your parents as children and yourself as the adult. Sometimes changing perspective can be incredibly revealing.
