Single Parents Vs. Difficult Teenagers

Many of today's parents seem to have a little more difficulty dealing with their children and teens in general. I believe that children from previous generations tended to fear their parents more than the children of today do. An example of this is shown though "Jane", a close friend of mine who owns an employment recruiting business

I am self employed and own a marketing business. To help supplement my business and avoid returning to "corporate America", I sometimes work on projects with Jane and she pays me a finder's commission when I find what she needs.

I emailed Jane but did not get a response which was strange because normally she usually replies within an hour, no matter what time I send her an email. A couple days later Jane responded and let me know she had issues which is why I didn't hear from her. Jane emailed that she would get me the info I needed but she had some severe problems with her daughter whom I'll call Mindy. The email stated that she had to call the police through the 911 system because Mindy ran away and she had to run after her for about 2 miles to keep her in sight. In addition, Mindy was in bed for 2 days and wouldn't go to school. Jane informed me that she had some tough decisions to make regarding Mindy's future.

I immediately called Jane and went into counseling mode. Amazingly since my youth I have always had the gift and ability to intuitively understand others. I never have professionally studied psychology or counseling but always have been able to give an answer appropriate to the needs of my audience.

I was glad when Jane answered but she informed me that Mindy was at her Dad's house and would be gone for 24 hours and she had to get as much done as possible but could talk for a short while.

I called Jane and we discussed the situation and I let her know I was there to talk whenever she needed. It is very important for single parents to have someone trustworthy to talk to during difficult situations. It's ok to vent, however, make sure it is someone who really has your best interests at heart. It also helps to vent to someone who is knowledgeable about the topic you are venting about otherwise you may be in for some bad advice.