Re:

Cain't worry too much, just be supportive but also teach that there is a shift of responsibility that has to occur between parent and child. At some point they rebel, and its best to not fight that, rather to explain that you realize they will be wanting, needing, to make their own decisions, and that is what life is about. As children, they have no power, as adults, they have all the power. Managing the change from point A to point B is the job. I can see where lots of parents have trouble with that, not wanting to let go, the feminine ones being often overwhelmed emotionally - I saw instances where all hell broke loose excepting my interjection and re-establishment of rationalism. Without me, it would be chaos. Once you tell them you are giving them some power, they feel good about it and respect you. Denying any power or being overly-restrictive of it, leads to problems, which can become generational. Proper preparation form ages 1-14 by providing a stable environment with two parents each contributing in their rightful ways helps alot. My view, is that it takes two to raise a child - their mum and pop, and not a villiage of idiots. The proof is in the pudding. My oldest turned 18 last week. He's quite the gentleman. He knows better than to be otherwise.