Posted by AuntieMel on March 8, 2005, at 14:14:59
In reply to Re: please help with 16 son, posted by starrc68 on March 5, 2005, at 18:34:23
The phone call was probably someone wanting to know just how many kids ran away. Possibly a parent of the kid you know did take off.
If you think he's into too many drugs, you might want to check out the possibly of committing him to rehab. Adults can't be put into a facility against their will, but I don't think kids have the same right.
It is indeed difficult to yank back the ropes after he's experienced this much freedom. But it might be the best thing for him. I would recommend writing out some type of contract for behavior - and possibly associate some freedoms with school performance - and signing it with him. Start with it a little tougher than you are willing to settle for, and allow him to make reasonable changes. This way he'll feel like he has some input into the process.
And I would seriously recommend reading up for yourself on some al-anon type literature. It stresses taking responsibility for youself and taking care of yourself. And how to break the pattern of giving in.
Anyway, besides the kid running away and him not having the best taste in friends, how is he doing. Does he show up when he says he will? How are the grades?
poster:AuntieMel
thread:466455
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/child/20050226/msgs/468282.html