Teenage Parenting: Bridging the Generation Gap

By Seema Gupta

Many kids announce the onset of adolescence with a dramatic change in their behaviour around their parents or elders. They begin to separate from their moms and dads and try to become more independent. At the same time, children of this age are increasingly aware of how others, especially their peers, see them and are desperately trying to fit into the current fads and trends.

Moreover, there is a vast generation gap between the teenagers and their parents or elders. Times have changed and with the advent of new and modern developments in science and technology, life has become faster and easier. There has been a drastic transformation in our lifestyle, and this has in turn brought about considerable changes in our behaviour, dressing styles, eating habits, modes of recreation, etc.

Hence, due to the above factors, there arises continuous conflict of thoughts, beliefs and values between the parents or elders and the teenagers irrespective of the families, religions, or strata of the society they belong to. The author in this book, Teenage Parenting has incorporated various such conflicts in the form of interesting Diary Entries from the diaries of different parents and teenagers reflecting their views and grievances on several subjects. Each of the Diary Entry is followed by a Parental Tip advising parents to deal intelligently and patiently according to the issue concerned. This is further complemented by an expert advice of a Counsellor, who acts as a judge providing an impartial and amicable solution to the problem in each case.

So, this is a 'must read' for both the youngsters of today and their parents to bridge the generation gap which is deepening day by day.

• Language: English
• Publisher: V&S Publishers
• Release date: Dec 15, 2012
• ISBN: 9789350573358

Seema Gupta

Seema Gupta has a Master’s Degree in Sociology and MS in Psychotherapy and Counselling. A prolific writer, Ms Gupta has authored several widely acclaimed books on a wide variety of subjects ranging from the position of women in Indian society to interpersonal relationships. Portrait of a Perfect Woman, Correct Etiquette and Manners, Stress@ Home, Teenage Parenting are some of her books which have been widely acclaimed. Many of her articles and short stories have won accolades from her readers.

Book preview

teenagers.

1

Late Night Parties

Late night parties for teenagers are not acceptable in most Indian households, especially if the teenager is a girl. Does this mean the parents are too orthodox or is there any reasonable explanation to this rule that teenagers find so appalling?

Let's visit Malhotra household and see what Anushka and her parents say in this matter.

Anushka — 16-years old teenager (student of class X)

Rajesh — Anushka's father (employed in a marketing job)

Suruchi — Anushka's mother (housewife)

Abhinav — Anushka's brother (12-year old, student of class VII)

THE CONFLICT!!!

Anushka's Diary

Diary of Anushka's Mother

Counsellor Speaks

The problem between Anushka and her parents regarding late night parties stems from the root that many other girls are allowed to go to such parties, while Anushka's parents forbid her.

For Anushka

It would help to allow Anushka to identify more such girls in her group who follow this norm of No Late Night Parties and not just compare herself with those who do not.

Anushka may ask her friends who have been dropped by her father after her party, why they appreciate his gesture.

Also she must have faith in her parents. They are her well-wishers, not her enemies. All that they have in their hearts is the thought of her safety and well-being. For that they have made many sacrifices and would always be willing to do so. So she should act mature now and understand the hidden thought behind all this curfew.

For Parents

Parents should have a heart-to-heart talk with Anushka and clear her doubts. She should not feel as if she has been denied something because this may result in her turning into a rebel of sorts.

The mother should also talk to Anushka and inform her about the vicious ways of life. Ramola and other people's experiences should be shared with her.

Anushka's parents should also convey to her why they stick to their 8 pm deadline even for other girls who come to her parties. Give her some examples and make her realise the importance of this rule. If possible get your views endorsed by some of her friends. Once she understands she will not sulk over such a petty matter.

Last but not the least, it may be advisable to let her hair down by allowing her to attend a late night party once in a while, but on condition that it should not cross beyond 10 pm. Plan your