To think Pete and Sue in Outnumbered are wet lettuce parents

[Vintagejazzing]

I have been re-watching the series over the last few nights and been really struck by what crap parents Sue and Pete are. I know that's part of the joke, but they're really really bad.
Once Karen and Ben got past the cute curly headed moppet stage they were actually obnoxious kids. Rude, disobedient, constantly answering back, disliked by fellow pupils and teachers. Karen even had to be called in by her Headmistress during her first year in secondary school for a conversation about how dislikeable and annoying she is.
AIBU to think Sue and Pete were useless parents who should have done a bit more telling off and a bit less 'reasoning' with their kids?

Once kids get to teens they’re in charge of their own lives anyway.

Oh GOD I wish this were true.

Teens need you more ... in a different but definitely intense way.

I’m not saying they don’t need you I’m saying they can make their own decisions. Which is why when there are 3 teens and 2 parents, the latter are outnumbered.

It's some of the best TV ever made IMO, although it was best when the children were younger.

All the best comedy exaggerates recognisable truths

I’m saying they can make their own decisions

To a degree obviously but there's many they can't or where you'll still be the final arbiter.

I didn't think the kids being teens really made a difference to the premise of the show anyway.

To a degree obviously but there's many they can't or where you'll still be the final arbiter.

No shit.

You're nice. 🤨

Isn’t it a piss take about a certain style of parenting

I think it’s funny particularly when Pete losses it the time they have an afternoon playing games as a family

It's certainly relatable - there are a lot of wet parents about.

Absolutely! Lots of parents do not get this though. They take less to do with teens, when actually, they need as much as toddlers, just the need is different. That is why so many teens are so neglected.

In your opinion! I thought it was absolutely hilarious, and I loved Ben and Karen! They were brilliant characters. Love that show.