How to Reason With a Hipster

A hipster is a person who is "hip." If you're hip, you are trendy, stylish and aware of every change and fad that comes along. More often than not, you want to be right in the middle of the most current fad, too. Teenagers are often hipsters.

Instructions

1. Reason with a hipster by first realizing that your teenager is going through a tremendous change in life. Physically, mentally and emotionally, a teenager is often on a roller-coaster ride. Hormones are raging, peer-pressure is pounding and competition is fierce to be the best and have the best. The latest gadget, the newest cell phone and the hippest hairstyle consume most of the thought life of a hipster.

2. Resist the urge to argue and lecture when you try to reason with a hipster in any difference of opinion. Especially during the high school years, you may find yourself engaged in a power struggle over the slightest issue. Choose your battles carefully. Not everything is vitally important. If it's outlandish fashion styles causing the conflict, remember that styles come and go quickly. Reason with yourself and ask yourself if what you're trying to control in your hipster will really matter 100 years from now.

3. Release your hold on your teenager a little at a time, transferring freedom gradually. Teenagers feel the pressure of a form of combat all day long at school, struggling for recognition and acceptance. Once the dating scene begins, your hipster needs guidelines but he also needs to know that you trust him. If you've done your job well up until now, relax (as much as you can with a hipster in the house) and let her know that you're in her corner. Set reasonable limits and accountability, but don't micro-manage every detail of her life.

4. Refresh your life and your hipster's life by focusing on sound reason. Too often parents become idealistic perfectionists and expect teenagers to perform up to the highest standard possible. Each teenager is unique and what one can handle, another cannot yet. As a parent, it's up to you to know your hipster's personality and temperament. Reason with your hipster about issues that really matter such as behavior that has moral significance. Let your teenager know that every decision has consequences.

Tips & Warnings

• Teenagers may be hip, but they still want the security of knowing someone is in charge at home.