Help me with my overprotective dad?

Question

I was asked by some people that are my friends to go to the mall and there are about 3 of us. We are all 14 and 13 and I've been to the mall without a parent before. My parents are divorced and my mom lets me. My father however wont let me. He says I'm to young. I have a cell phone and he knows I'm responsible. Why wont he let me go? Why doesn't he realize I want to hang with my camp friends who I barely see? He always tells me to grow up and be responsible, but now he is treating me like I am a young girl and can't handle things.

What are some things I could do to encourage him to let me go?

Whats the big deal about going to the mall?

Thank you in advanced.

Answer 1

Well, first of all, watch the news. Girls your age disappear everyday, and add to it, you're "Daddy's little girl".  I don't know what to tell you other than be patient and maybe ask your dad what his biggest concerns are and find a compromise.  Invite him to the mall with you and your friends.  True, not the coolest thing to have dad tagging along, but after actually seeing what you guys do, he may give in a little and realize he's being a little strict.  Times have changed.  I don't know how old your dad is, but I can guarantee when he was your age, child abduction was never an issue like it is today.  He loves you, that's why he's being strict, not to be mean, just remember that.

Answer 2

Im in the same boat!

Mom lets me and dad doesnt, my parents are divorced too.

But its not because im too young.

The reason was because boys.

=/

and because he still thinks as you as his little girl.

Answer 3

Have you tried explaining that? I mean like an intelligent adult, not a kid trying to get something out of parents.

Maybe you can convince him your prepared for anything the mall might have, get a can of pepper spray or something.

Answer 4

I agree with the first answerer, it's not about being too young anymore.  There's a fine line between childhood (where you're too young to go by yourself) and, well, the teenage years (where you're too, uhh...how should I say this, attractive of the opposite gender? to go by yourself).

I'd say wait it out.  You say he already knows you're responsible, so there's no need to do anything to show him.  Just respect his decision; he wouldn't do anything to hurt you, it seems.

And when you're fifteen, ask again.  That's the age when you start getting more freedom in America, from my experience.