First things first… you need to realise that you baby is growing up. This is the time when she is trying to find herself and be an individual. She will experiment and many a times do things against your wishes. But this is all part of growing up.

So go easy on her.

Reason It Out

The best way to get her to agree is to try and explain the reasons behind your reactions and decisions.

Use incidents from your life to help her understand how things can go wrong. This way she will know that you aren't talking off the top of your head.

If the situation gets worse, consult a counsellor. Sometimes kids are more receptive to an external person. If not a counsellor, then find someone in the family itself.

The Big Bad World

Lets face it… things have changed since you were a teen. Today, kids are more mature than you might have been at your age. They are exposed to so much more.

So take the time to talk to her about drugs, rape, unwanted pregnancies, sex and the pros and cons of having a boyfriend. If she is aware, she will be responsible in her actions.

Earn Her Respect

Make her feel that like a friend and try and understand things from her perspective.

Give her space and privacy. If she has friends who are boys, entertain them.

Otherwise she will just lie to you about not meeting them. And most important, keep the lines of communication open at all times. Let her know you support her, so she can come to you whenever she has a problem.

(With inputs from Dr. Zirak Marker, consultant child / adult psychiatrist and psychotherapist)