Why is my dad treat me like a moron?

Question

He enrolled me in a cram driving school for a week. But he treats me like I'm useless. Insulting me with his snide remarks, saying I'm going to fail, or fall asleep in class. I do the same things I do in high school, and I'm an A student, so why can't he just trust me?

Like for example, I told him that most kids in my class already have driving experience, and that I'm not as knowledgeable because I don't, but he refuses to teach me. He wants my first time driving to be with an instructor, which I think is a waste of money. I'd rather my parents teach me the basics and have an instructor develop my skills. And I know I'm a slow practical learner, so I need PRACTISE, which he refuses.

Also, I take naps when I get home, sometimes waking up around 9pm and then staying up to study. I've done this since I was in Grade 9, so I can't kick the habit, but I study better at night. And it's summer, so my internal clock has switched. He always gets mad at me and insults my intelligence subtly, saying that I won't do well and such. My friends get twice as much sleep as me and they end up sleeping through entire classes. I can stay awake and focused when I need to.

My question is why does my dad act like I'm totally incompetent? He's making me resentful toward him and toward driving. I don't even feel like learning anymore because of these incidents.

Answer 1

It's hard for some parents to teach their children to drive.  Your dad knows that about himself so he's paying someone else to do it.

As for the practice, where is your mom?  Could she help with this part?

At your age you're supposed to be fighting with your parents and resenting them a little.  It's called "separation and individuation" which basically means you're becoming your own person and realizing that you're different than he is.  That is a good thing.

Stick with the driving, it's a big piece of your independence.  You learn for yourself, not for him, so don't give up!