| join now | shop | freebies & contests | help
     gURL.com  the Web    web search powered by Yahoo!


SHOUT OUT BOARDS

YOUR ROOM


HELP ME HEATHER

SEX ED BLOG



gURL GAMES

QUIZZES



COMIX

PHOTOS



POLLS

VIDEO



BODY IMAGE

SEX

  you are here  >>> FIND OUT > help me heather > family  
 


 
  Dear Heather,

My mom is annoying me. She keeps being overprotective, trying to save me from everything when all I want to do is fix my own problems myself. Plus, she goes through my things or she looks on my laptop screen and starts to ask about everything. I consider my life on the Internet something that's only mine, but she feels the need to invade my privacy. I have asked her to stop yet she doesn't. What can I do to get her to allow me to have my own life?

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

 
 
 
Hi.

The relationship between parent and teen often rests on trust, which can be a delicate balance to achieve and maintain. Parents who feel that their teens' lives are mysteries to them are more likely to butt-in and snoop. With all of the possible "dangers" out there, many believe that it's better to be safe than sorry.

If you're the type who would rather put a nail through your hand than talk to your parents about anything, that may be exacerbating the situation. Opening up about some of the stuff that's going on in your life might help to her feel more comfortable trusting you.

You can also try addressing the situation head-on at a time when you are both calm and not in the middle of conflict. Let her know that, though you appreciate her guidance, having space to solve things on your own right now is important. It might help to describe this time as training for adulthood. Reassuring her that you will come to her when you hit bumps in the road or have a difficult decision to make may help her to relax and trust you more, but you must be sincere. She will likely sense it, if you are not.

If your mother's behavior has been prompted by rules you have broken or some trouble you have gotten into, however, you may have more work to do. The trust must be regained. Rules must be followed, the straight and narrow must be walked.

 
   
 
 

more family

select another topic:

 
 
 

email this feature to a friend:
IM this feature to a friend (AIM only):
tell us what you think of this feature.

  CONNECT EXPLORE gURL.com BY TOPIC ABOUT gURL  
 
shout out boards
gURL newsletter


being yourself
beliefs
body image
brainylicious
dating
d.i.y.
fashion & style
friends & family
health
music, movies & media
school & careers
sex
sports
sucky emotions

contact us
what is gURL?
advertise on gURL
privacy policy
terms of service
help

 
  ADVERTISEMENT

   
   Also... Get your horoscope mailed to you every day!
   Sign up for gURL and Astrology.com's daily newsletter.

 

© iVillage Inc. 1995-2008. All rights reserved.