Blaming the Phone
My mother is convinced that my phone is the reason for my outburst at school last week. I guess she thinks my behavior was triggered by a few mean kids who decided to call me names and pick fights—with me being the new student, it was bound to happen.
Honestly, who wouldn’t react that way in a situation like that?
Being in a strict high school setting, I can’t afford to have any more incidents; one more outburst could lead to expulsion. They don’t offer second chances here, which adds even more pressure.
What my mother said felt so cliché, like something out of a generational rant about technology ruining youth. “Why can’t my children appreciate me anymore when I take their phones away to protect them from violence?” she lamented. She pointed out that I had been glued to my screen all through the holidays after I graduated from secondary school.
I mean, what teenager wouldn’t spend their long school break on their phone?
It’s clear my mother’s showing her age—she’s nearing 50—and probably hasn’t picked up a phone in a while herself. Now, as punishment, she’s demanding that I pray for 10 minutes every day. If I misbehave again, that time will increase to 20 minutes. It feels like a scene straight out of a sitcom—imagine Bart Simpson in a Christian school!
Her worries echo those of stereotypical parents who blame video games for violence and all sorts of misbehavior, yet she spends her time on Candy Crush and has a running Facebook account with endless apps open.
While my mom is generally sweet and caring, her approach to punishment leans toward the harsh side. I can see why so many kids struggle to connect with their parents—it’s hard not to feel that strain when it’s happening firsthand.
It sounds like you’re going through a really tough time, and I can understand why you’re feeling frustrated with your mom’s reaction. It’s hard to be in a new school, and dealing with other students being mean on top of that can really impact your emotions and behavior.
You’re right; many teens do spend a lot of time on their phones, and it can feel unfair for parents to blame technology for everything. It’s also understandable that your mom is worried about your well-being, especially with the strict rules at your school. I think a lot of parents struggle to find the right balance when it comes to screen time and how it affects their kids.
The punishments can feel harsh, especially if they don’t seem to fit the situation, and it’s clear you’re frustrated with her approach. Maybe having an open conversation about how you’re feeling could help. Expressing your side and letting her know that you’ve had a tough start at school might bring you both closer.
It must also be hard to feel like your interests are dismissed, especially since your mom uses her phone too. Everyone is trying to navigate these changes, even parents. Maybe you could find a middle ground together that addresses her concerns while allowing you to feel more understood? It might help ease some of that tension.