My parents got rid of the TV! And now they're thinking about getting rid of the computer! Help!?

• My parents got rid of the TV because they don't like some of the shows on there. Now they want to get rid of the computer because there is bad stuff on the computer too. They don't want me to buy any teen magazines, but I do anyway and I hide them good. I told my parents that 'bad stuff' is everywhere, and they can't keep me inside a bubble forever, but they just said that getting rid of the TV and computer would be good for me. Keep in mind that I'm 14, and when any of my fave shows are on, my friends have to record them for me and give them to me without my parents knowing. The shows aren't even bad! I had American Idol taped for me. What should I do to convince my parents that bad stuff is everywhere and by hiding me they're just making it worse?

• Answer:

  You may thank your parents later. In the meantime, is it possible that you can earn money for buying these things for yourself, if you demonstrate and promise that you'll use them responsibly? Try to help your parents see your point of view and try hard to see theirs. (The conversation MUST be calm, respectful and well-timed.) If these items are more important to you than what your family is trying to teach you, you may consider emancipation when you're older. Ask yourself if you can put up with what seem like hard conditions temporarily, until you are on your own. It's probably worth it to you to do so. Obviously, your parents know they have no control over what you do when you are not at home. They have simply decided that they must take hard stands about what is permissible in their home. Since it is your home, too, I really recommend educating yourself and your parents on what controls can be used for the TV and the computer to make them "safe" and seeing if they will allow you to try these things on an agreed upon trial basis. You know-your attitude is really more important than you realize in dealing with your parents. Obviously they love you or they wouldn't be paying a bit of attention to these matters. It's possible a third party could help you and your parents work these things out, especially if it's someone they and you all trust-a clergyman, relative or counsellor, for instance. You'll have plenty of irate responses to your question. I hope this answer can be more helpful to you than more anger or rebellion will be. God bless you. You or your parents are welcome to message me anytime. Buttercup