How to Get Your Parents' Attention Without Angering Them

As you grow up, you might start to feel isolated in your household. Either your parents still treat you like a child or ignore you because they don't know how to deal with the grown-up you. Communication is now more important than ever in the family realm. Learn to express yourself and know how to grab your parents' attention without making them angry.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Think through the reasons you want to get your parents' attention and write them down as your working agenda. You may want them to acknowledge your opinions or shock them into acknowledging your existence. Knowing why you want to get their attention is essential to your planning.
2. Find a quiet time to confront your parents. Right after work may not be a good time since they may be stressed our or have their minds on other things. Ask them to set aside a time talk to you.
3. State that you asked for the conversation in order to communicate as a family, and remind them that you are trying to work as a family team. Respect yourself and them throughout the conversation by keeping good eye contact and stating your points succinctly, without rambling.
4. Ask them if they would like to take a break if they start getting angry. Suggest talking again a bit later when everyone calms down. If you're concerned this will be an issue, you might want a third party on hand to act as a mediator.
5. Don't get sidetracked and stick with the original agenda you set for yourself in Step 1. If your parents keep getting angry or treat you with disrespect, suggest family counseling.