Conflict in the home

At some point in time all families experience conflict, whether it be problems in the parent/child relationship or sibling rivalry. See this for what it is, an important course to teach you how to cope as an adult with conflict in the outside world.

We are all unique with different personalities and sometimes we clash when we don’t understand why people do the things they do.

At some point, this too shall pass. Meanwhile, have self-control and do not aggravate the situation, no matter how tempted you are. Just keep it cool and behave as you always do, try not to let the conflict get to you and don’t aggravate the situation.

Often times we get so swept up in the emotional aspects of an argument that we forget to even find out what the real underlying factors are. Instead of sulking or being spiteful, rather be co-operative – your parents will definitely give you more rope if you co-operate.

Should conflict affect your schoolwork, speak to a counselor or teacher.

Friends are chosen - family not!

Many teenagers are ashamed of their families, because they are old-fashioned or weird and not financially well off like our friends’ families. Funny thing is that our friends feel just like that about their own families; they just do not tell you that!

It is vital that your friends and family get to know one another; no matter I said earlier that life is not what it used to be. Bad things happen and many tragedies could have been avoided if parents knew exactly what their kids were up to at all times.

For your safety, please, do not keep your friends away. It is vital that your family know where you are at all times. Imagine your parents asked about your schedule every time they had people over just because they were embarrassed by you and didn’t want you around when their friends came? Okay, I know that might sound cool at first, but look a bit deeper. You are their gorgeous, intelligent daughter and parents like to show of their gorgeous intelligent daughters, but for some reason, they are ashamed of you. How would that feel? Now just imagine what your family would feel like if they knew you felt this way about them?

Sometimes your parents may not like your friends. Instead of getting angry, rather listen and try to understand where they are coming from. Ask your parents to get to you’re your friend in the safety of your home before letting you venture out on your own with the friend. However, you needn’t tell your friend this is the case. You need to show a united front with your parents.

Allay their fears and reach a compromise with your parents, allowing them to have some control of the situation and allowing you to be able to see your friend. Agree to let your parents know when you are hanging out with the friend in question if they agree not to nag about it

Parents, and I believe mothers in particular have a really special instinct when it comes to their children’s safety. Be honest!