Why do parents tell their children they could do anything when they turn 18?
By eileenleyva
@eileenleyva (27560)
Philippines
June 20, 2009 4:49pm CST
I must have browsed on a number of parents in a dilemma about how to handle their adolescent children wanting to do something when they turn 18. One likes to date a much older guy. Another wants to redefine her skin organ as some sort of art canvass for a tattoo. Problem is, the parents had given their word. One is allowed to do what they wish when they turn legal. After all, it is their body. It is their life. It is their decision. Shocks! My 18 year old had her debut and had been attending conventions for her college education but she carried on through all these without earrings. That is because she doesn't have pierced ears. I once told her that I didn't have her ears pierced when she was a child because her body is not mine to meddle with. She was grateful for that. I asked her if she was going to have it pierced now that she has legally the option to do what she likes. She told me that not because she's 18 she understands everything with clarity. She's not up to it. Nor is she up to dating because all the others are doing so. When you are 18, the more you get confused about the things that you really like. So why do parents tell their children they could do anything when they turn 18?
1 person likes this
2 responses
@ribbon1226 (192)
• United States
23 Jun 09
At 18 years of age they are considered to be adults, it is their body and it is their choice. Please know that even though your daughter feels that way it is not the same for others.
I feel we are to guide our children when they are young and let them make their decisions when adults. I have a very open and honest relationship with both my daughter's. They will ask advice and we openly talk about what they are thinking of doing but the ultimate decision is theirs.
