Wanted - Instruction manual for 16 year old

[Narnia]

If anyone has been there and done that, how does one operate a male 16 year old? No previous experience of dealing with one as is a lone child. Tends to go to school (studying A levels), play on computer and do nothing else. Does not like 'chats' to try and develop an interest in studying more and spending less time on the computer. Suggestion of cancelling broadband subscription unless an agreed 'timetable' put in place met with indifference. I understand 'models' of this age can be difficult to comprehend but would like to hear any sound advice from forumites. Am somewhat cheered up by a quote I read by some American writer which went something like 'when I was 14 I thought my father was ignorant, stupid and of little intelligence. By the time I was 21, I was amazed by how much he had learned'

[Peckhamgatecrasher]

I believe that was Mark Twain. I have a 13 year old who has been a stroppy teenager from birth. Only cast iron thing that works is revoking mobile phone privileges or out and out monetary bribes.

good luck

[lozzyloz]

Hold down texting finger whilst also pressing stop on MP3, bend over and re-boot. You may have to do this several times before memory starts to work.

[TillieTrotter]

Is he doing well at school? If so, leave him be. You'd be pulling your hair out if he were roaming the streets and causing aggro.

I have a daughter who has just turned 18. She pretty much did the same thing at that age and just had great A level results and is now a fully fledged walking talking adult.

Good luck.

[ChavWivaLawDegree]

I find bribery the best option - but this only works if they are totally cash strapped and dependent on parents largesse! You have to be tough though and not give in to begging.

[Narnia]

TillieTrotter Wrote:

-------------------------------------------------------

> Is he doing well at school? If so, leave him be.

> You'd be pulling your hair out if he were roaming

> the streets and causing aggro.

>

> I have a daughter who has just turned 18. She

> pretty much did the same thing at that age and

> just had great A level results and is now a fully

> fledged walking talking adult.

>

> Good luck.

Would she like to take out a 16yr old boy?

[TillieTrotter]

Ermmm, are you asking me to pimp out my beloved daughter?? :))

[Narnia]

Well 'pimp' is probably a bit strong. More like an introduction to a life outside the confines of a computer! Handsome chap he is with good manners. Could do with the guidence of an older woman methinks.

[TillieTrotter]

Couldnt you all dear! (relates to point that he could do with the guidance of an older woman)

She has just embarked on her gap year and is working 4 different jobs at the mo (see, they do grow into responsible folk), so is having mighty trouble keeping up with her old friends.

But honestly, dont fret too much, he sounds like the norm.;-)

[Narnia]

Thanks for that TT!