Video:How to Handle Controlling Parents
with Patricia O'LaughlinLearning how to handle controlling parents can make a huge difference in terms of maintaining a good relationship. Here, see tips for handling controlling parents.See Transcript
Transcript:How to Handle Controlling Parents
Hi, my name is Patricia O'Laughlin and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with TherapyForParents.com.Notes About How to Handle Controlling Parents
Today I'm speaking to you on behalf of About.com on how to handle controlling parents. I know being a teenager isn't easy. There are some really hard decisions that you are having to make out there. Having controlling parents can make it feel even worse. It can be really upsetting at times. It's important for you to talk to your parents about your feelings. It's hard to be a parent. It's hard to know what direction to go into. When our kids talk to us about their feelings and their perception, it helps us make decisions on where to go.Tips for How to Handle Controlling Parents
There are a few things you can do to approach your parents on talking about their behaviors. One is use "I" statements and talk about your feelings. Say to them "I love you. I'm feeling like you are trying to control me and you don't trust me." When we use "I" statements, it can help the other person hear us better. Another thing is to tell your parents that you understand the importance of rules, talk to them about how rules have helped you in the past, and that you are okay with them giving you some rules, but explain why maybe it feels like too many rules, why you're not getting an opportunity to express yourself and be who you think you are.And finally, if it feels like you have tried these things and you've tried to talk to your parents and it feels like they are not hearing you, talk to somebody at school, a teacher or a counselor. Often times, these people can meet with you and your parents, help you talk to your parents. Sometimes that helps our parents listen better. I know it's not easy but really communicating about how you feel is important. Practicing with your parents is a great way to start.
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