Teenagers: House Rules
Teenagers need house rules. Written ones cut down on misunderstandings. Since you own the house and run the house, you make the rules.
- First: You have to decide whether or not to loan out your car, bicycle, camera, radio, TV, clothes and so on. If your teenager breaks something, he should repair it or replace it.
- Second: Clarify the ground rules about where snacks are eaten and how guests are supervised. If your teenager makes a mess, she needs to clean it up.
- Third: While a teenager's preferences can be tolerated within her own room, they needn't be accepted in the rest of the house. You can forbid loud music that interferes with other people's concentration or sleep. Are these house rules negotiable? Sure, up to a point. Some families find it helpful to hold a family conference after dinner once a week. At this time your teenager can ask for changes in the house rules and present her case. If her position is reasonable, change the rule. But if she wants late night, incoming telephone calls that interrupt your sleep, say "No." Again, it's your house.
If you have any questions about your teenager's behavior, consult your healthcare provider.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.
Author and Senior Reviewer: Barton D. Schmitt, M.D. FAAP
Last Review: 6/1/2008
Last Revised: 6/1/2000
Copyright 1994-2008 Barton Schmitt, M.D. Parent Advice Messages.
