[Aliantha]

I'm fairly familiar with how teenagers think. I'm also aware that teenagers have a lot to offer and that it's what we do as parents which affects how they are as adults.

I don't see the point in treating a teenager as if they have no self determination when they obviously, and rightly do have self determination. A teenager, like any other human being, knows what they want, and if given the opportunity will be able to explain why they want it. They, like the rest of us, are products of their environment up until they are released from parental controls at which time they are answerable and responsible for and to themselves. It's at this time that the true indication of a good versus bad parenting becomes apparent.

I would rather over estimate than under estimate my child although I intend to make sure I do neither. It's nice just to know that they're doing ok and to see the outcomes of allowing them room to think for themselves.