In this blog, I will be addressing the parent’s invasion of children’s privacy. As children grow into teenagers research shows that parents who invade their children’s privacy typically end up knowing less about what their children are doing since children often respond to privacy invasions with greater secrecy.As adolescents mature, they are also faced with approaching adulthood and the need for greater freedom in their lives. This leads to uncomfortable boundary issues with new temptations and new rules they lay down for themselves clashing with the rules laid down by their parents. Teenagers will start taking control of property and space and parents need to respect this privacy. This is done by parents:
- Knocking before going into her room
- Asking before looking in or getting things out of the school bag
- Checking if your child wants you to be there when they see the doctor
- Asking before checking their mobile
There should be however a level of communication that will help both the parents and adolescents find a balance. This is done by for instance talking to your child why you don’t like their group of friends. If you find out that they are watching something inappropriate for their ages explain to them why it is such considered inappropriate. Explain to them why there is the need for the parents to know where they are going and at what time they are to return home.
Let us not forget that teenagers are discovering who they are and this discovery can only be found by their own trials and errors. As parents we can always guide them and help them however we should not invade their own development.
Therisa Gambin is a psychology graduate who worked in the HR sector for the past 4 years. She decided to change her career path and thus is at present an intern at Willingness and will continue to focus on psychology practices.