Many children look for ways to violate family rules or modes of behavior. One possibility is by testing the parents. They might break one rule just to create a precedent, or the beginning of a major schism in the entire network of parenting regulations. They can then continue to violate regulations until the family's entire network of rules is removed.

A child who reaches his late adolescent years thinks about how he will fit in with the future. He may also consider his options for raising a family. This thought may be terrifying. The child wants to consider experiences beyond those with which he is familiar. He sees his convenient and comfortable home as the best venue for testing out and experimenting with alternative possibilities.

An older child may be able to say, “Listen, I would like to try out different options and possibilities.” However, a young child cannot handle the issue in this way. He will simply jump in - and occasionally perform acts that are not accepted in the family.

Other children carry out antisocial activities with the full knowledge that they are hurting their parents.

They may get this need out of their system by traveling around the world. Some children may join religious societies, cults, or other groups that would not be acceptable to their parents. Sometimes the cult may present a severe and difficult situation. Sometimes it is impossible to remove children from these cults.

Of course, a child who resorts to experimentation does not necessarily realize or consider the ultimate consequences. His rebellion takes place here and now. Its results are rarely considered until it is too late.

Thus, parents who try to analyze the situation thoughtfully and logically may fail. Adults see their children from a certain perspective. Their life experience helps them realize the consequences of their actions.

On the other hand, a child – especially one who has led a sheltered life – does not think in these terms. He wants to change the world. Rebellion is seen as a reasonable method to achieve this goal. Logic is not an issue.

It may be helpful and useful to step back and think about these issues from the adolescent's point of view. In that way, you may be able to consider a more appropriate way to deal with your child.