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Teenagers

Parenting teenagers has its ups and downs. Get advice from Mumsnetters here.

Teen behaviour

1 reply

88jj · 02/10/2025 11:45

My 17 year old behaviour is not manageable. I’m a single parent, and there are no rules that I can have which are listened to, she goes out and comes in at any time she likes around 2,3,4am, sometimes comes in being sick, I’m guessing from drinking.

Completely refuses to come back when I try to set a time.
I don’t have her location as she’s never allowed this so I don’t know where she is.

Attendance when at school was bad, would refuse to get out of bed, and was constantly late, turning up for school around half 10 / 11am. ( meant to be 08:50 )

Not sure what to do, I’ve tried to make a GP appointment but I’m told i would need her permission to speak about her! Who can help me? I’m sworn at, and don’t actually feel like a parent at all as she does as she likes, I’m finding it so controlling and can’t put up with it anymore.

Has anyone else struggled with anything like this?

OP posts:
Meadowfinch · 02/10/2025 15:51

Now she is 17 you have few choices.

Stop giving her any money. Withhold privileges.

You can start calling her bluff. Tell her 'Be home by midnight or the door will be locked.'

Ask her to adhere to some basic rules or move out.

Calling her bluff may not work. It may force her to look for money and a place to stay from dodgy sources. But there aren't many other choices if she won't respond to reason.

Is there anyone she respects? Her dad? A cousin or grandparent?

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