Today’s teenagers live in a world that their parents often find scary and alien. It seems that there are no protective walls around our youngsters – computers and cell phones open them to a wide world of exposure and vulnerability that we don’t even fully understand. Moreover, teens are more independent and are physically away from their parents more hours of the day and night. Parents are losing their grip . If you’re wondering where to draw the line on your teen’s privacy, consider the following tips:
Related article: How to Take the Stress Out of Parenting
Everyone is Entitled to Personal Space
It is healthy for every child to have a sense of privacy. This helps the youngster develop appropriate personal boundaries, a sense of “me” vs. “you” that helps the child come to know who she is and what she stands for – with the subsequent ability to stand up for one’s OWN values and beliefs. Privacy is attained by maintaining physical privacy – the ability to dress and bathe in privacy and the ownership of a private space (a bed, maybe a bedroom, a private wardrobe, personal possessions that are not for the use of others without permission).
Your teenager is at an age where it is inappropriate to rummage through her drawers or belongings. Unless you suspect your teen is hiding drugs, weapons or other dangerous possessions, you have no right to search her belongings. In fact, the kind of privacy you should give your teen is the privacy he or she deserves. If your teen has grown up to be responsible, caring, and trustworthy, then there is no reason for you to watch his or her every move or even suspect impropriety.
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