Why do teenagers think they know so much about life when they don't?

Question

I have a 14 yr old who acts so big and bad like nothing he dose is wrong and I'm always wrong.

Answer 1

Because you let him. To a certain extent that is typical teenage behavior, but the lack of respect for you is something completely different and that you have taught him is ok. Un-teach him! Stop putting up with it. You decide what is right and wrong in your house, obviously neither of you has quite figured that out, but now that you know make some changes!

Answer 2

It is part of typical teen behavior, but it need be unchecked for so long. I thik as a society when we got squeamish about laying some belt leather on those gluteus maximus, or other punishments. we taught kids that the only one who can take them on is the law. Parent could do nothing, certainly not anything that was painful. When society forgot who runs the home and sought to give kids near parity and rights in the home as the parents, the parents became figureheads and not much more.

I remember as a child no one wanted to be sent to the principals office at school because you knew it had a 60% chance of turning into a seat painful experience. And the class room was ALWAYS under the control of the teachers. The kids did not run the class as they do today.

I also remember I got into a fight with a kid after break. I was in the 3rd or 4th grade. the teacher was trying to break us up, get us apart. I was mad at her because I wanted to pound that other kid. So I kicked her. I was dragged into the office so fast you would have think I shot JFK. And I got a swat. And when I got home, I got a good dose of belt leather. I didn't die. I didn't become an axe murderer, and I didn't kill my family. What I did learn(and it followed me all the way through high school)NEVER LAY A HAND ON A TEACHER. From that day forward I never even so much as cussed a teacher much less spat, kicked or shoved one. Had I just been given a "time out" or something wimpy like that. I might have done it again. And others who seen nothing bad happens might have followed suit.

Todays teens are way out of line because too many people are scared to be parents because they want thier kids to think they are cool. Your kids will love you anyhow. Even after I got that belt leather from my mon, I still loved her, and did so until the day she died.

Answer 3

Because teenager's brains are not finished developing. They're only able to think about NOW and ME, ME, ME. The front part of your brain develops last, this part of the brain controls decision making skills and logic. This is also why teenagers make such rash decisions. They're making quick decisions based on their emotions. Some teenagers are different, of course, but the majority of teens are goign to be that way until their brain's are finished developing or until they have some sort of wake up call.

Oh god, and 14! That's the worst! Adolescence is so hard for parents, and kids. Kids don't know what's happening, all these horomones rushing through your brain and body. At 14, you're just learning who you are, and how to really act and be as a person. Be patient, but firm with him. A level of disagreement is understandable but he should always respect you.

Answer 4

Because they are teenagers! That's how they are... They are at the stage where they think they are old enough to control their life but in reality they are still dependent on their parents! Dont you remember what it was like when you were 14?? Sometimes they have to make their own mistakes to learn what life is all about... but as a parent, you should keep talking him...!! Good luck!

Answer 5

I'm in the same boat with you. As long as he gets to play on the computer or go bowling or golfing when he wants he's fine. Try to say something to him and he becomes instant smart as*. And the kid (my step-son) doesn't know when to shut up when we argue about something. He goes on and on and on about the most stupid stuff. He has never been wrong in an arguement, I jsut eventually give up and tell him he's got a lot to learn to which he replies, "you think I have a lot to learn, take a look in the mirror." I can't wait until the real world slaps him in the face!

Answer 6

The same reason of why when you where that age you thought your parents didn't know nothing. That is probably the number one reason why parents suck at raising their kids. You think because you went through it you know it all. And you probably do, but it will take for your children to make those mistake so then they can learn. Still tell them and guide them but also let them live. Once parents get that through their thick skulls maybe kids won't turn out so damn bad.

Answer 7

I'm 14 and i know i don't know everything..maybe hes still immature. i think i see the world different than most people my age these days.. but maybe soon he'll realize that hes not so big and bad once he experiences something unfamiliar and needs help

Answer 8

because they don't do anything for themselves. he doesn't appreciate what you do for him. let him get some responsibility. my parents made me get a job as soon as i was of legal age (i of course had to attend school as well) and every week day i had to volunteer for two hours at a nursing home or homeless shelter. i volunteered after school for all four years of high school. volunteering everyday made me thankful to my parents for giving me the things they did and appreciate everything i had. i saw that i was very lucky that they were there to take care of me and that i was privileged because the people in the nursing home and homeless shelters didn't have anyone. if i had refused to go to work or to volunteer, i would be punished with curfews. eventually i liked doing both and no longer needed to be told to volunteer and have a job.

Answer 9

Thank you! My daughter... oh she cruises for a smackin' on the regular! Their little brains are at a pivotal discovery developmental level. Poor little things don't know any better. She has me fantasizing about duct-taping her smart mouth on a daily basis just about. Lord, help me. Attribute it to hormones I guess, because she didn't get it from her upbringing.

Answer 10

They think they know everything because they think that everything revolves around them. 14 is a bad stage but they'll grow out of it soon, hopefully...