For decades the car has held a cherished place in American youth culture. It represents true freedom. It’s a place where teens call the shots and rebel from rules set by their parents--an adult-free zone.
Unfortunately, the car is simply too dangerous a place to rebel by behaving irresponsibly.
Teens crave independence, but parents must be sure they follow safety guidelines when it comes to driving. The challenge for parents is to figure out how to transform the car from being a place where teens act out to an ideal place where they can demonstrate – and get rewarded for – responsibility.
Parents can start this transformation by stressing that driving responsibly will ultimately earn their teens more freedom.
Tell them that if they act responsibly and follow safe driving rules, they will earn increased driving privileges and will:
On the other hand, emphasize that if they don’t follow driving or safety rules, they will be given less freedom. Independence must be earned. That’s the bottom line. The car can be a great place to show responsibility and maturity.
You reinforce that one of the greatest ways to earn your trust is to go along with the driving plan that allows them to demonstrate responsibility. This will help teens understand there is really something in it for them to behave responsibly in the car.