Teenage Curfew

   Often, it is not the behavior of the teenager that is of concern to a parent, but the behavior of other people and how it will affect them. For example, driving home at 11pm is usually much safer than driving home at 2am when the bars have closed and the instance of people driving under the influence increases. Drunk drivers create a life-threatening hazard as they try to make their way home. A curfew is also a way for a teen to gracefully get out of an unsafe or unpleasant situation. Sometimes, it is just nice to have a reason to leave. It is also important for a parent to know when to expect their teenager to come home. If a parent is not expecting their child home at a particular time, they have no way of knowing if their child is in trouble or needs help. It is a good idea for all family members to tell someone where they are going and what time they will be home. This eliminates worry and increases safety.