[discostu]

I still think it's because we're telling them they're stupid. We expect nothing from our teenagers and it's a self-fulfilling prophecy. Why should they start acting like responsible adults only to be told they're irresponsible kids?

[Willie Green]

We expect nothing from our teenagers and it's a self-fulfilling prophecy. Why should they start acting like responsible adults only to be told they're irresponsible kids?

"Expecting" something requires establishment of standards and corrective measures when those standards are not achieved. It is a progressive process that develops additional responsibility as children mature. One should not expose children to challenges and expectations for which they have not yet developed the skills to achieve. Telling the children that they are not ready for certain challenges is a necessary part of the training process. Laissez-faire does not work in child raising.