Dear Going Crazy,
Your parents make rules because they love you. Feeling frustrated about it can be extra common during the holidays when parents and kids feel stressed over test-taking, present-buying and family reunions. Nevertheless, nix the back-talk. It backfires anyhow, right? Every so often, when your dad is shouting the same old rules, say, "I see your point," or, "Got it." If you act less annoyed, he might be less strict. A heart-to-heart might also help. Tell him how you feel without being sarcastic. Toss in phrases like, "I realize you worry about me because you care." Deep down, dads want to protect their daughters—not drive them crazy.
 

SERIOUS STUFF? For serious issues, don’t wait. Visit our HELP! page now.

For more on Carol Weston, visit her website: carolweston.com or like her Facebook page.

 

To order Girltalk: All the Stuff Your Sister Never Told You, click here.
To order The Diary of Melanie Martin, click here.