How to Gain the Trust of Your Parent

Many of the teenagers and youngsters may feel that their parents are unable to trust them. The parent may not believe in the wisdom of the youngster, may feel that he/she is not capable of handling tough situations, is not responsible, will not be safe, cannot make logical and correct judgments etc. So they may oppose to your going to parties, night outs, tours, choice of friends, kinds of activities you do, people you get involved with and so on.

This can create a lot of tension between the youngster and the parent. The youngster may want to assert his/her freedom, feel that they are capable of deciding, choosing what is good for them, making appropriate choices, handling themselves well, and responsible enough to not get into difficulties. However the parent, due to fear based probably on lack of trust, may lay down strict rules, disciplinary actions to keep you under control.

Youngsters get torn in such situations when their individuals choices clash against the parent’s happiness/interests and when they have to choose between one of them. You cannot neglect and suppress your personal choices and preferences just because your parent does not trust you enough and don’t feel confident about you. It is by proving your capabilities, by conducting yourself in a responsible manner, by using discretion with the freedom you have, that you will be able to gain the trust and belief of the parent.

Use your freedom with caution. Of course taking risks, meeting challenges are a part of life; however, the point is to use the freedom for useful and appropriate purposes rather than frivolous and misguided activities. When you display that you can handle your freedom with responsibility and diligence, it will create trust.

Do not abuse the leeway given to you by parents. Do not get into some activities that they forbid you from just to prove them wrong or to satisfy your ego.

Have a clear sense of purpose, a plan or some assuring logic that will indicate to parents that you are aware of what you are doing, you have thought about the challenges that may arise and you are confident about working things out safely.