As salamu alaykum,

Shokran for writing to our live session. As I understand your situation sister, you are 17 years old and desire more freedom.

Restrictions

You state that you are barely allowed to use phone, you’re not allowed to go on any social media sites, nor give your phone number out to your friends. Additionally, you are not allowed to go out with your friends even for an hour. You also state that you are respectful, help out around the house a lot, and don’t misbehave. As you have not done anything to lose their trust or cause them to worry, I am sure you are perplexed.

I can understand you’re wanting more freedom, after all you are 17 and you are wonderful daughter and a pious Muslim. At this age I’m sure you feel that you would like to have friends and enjoy their company, as well as talk with them on the phone occasionally. It is a natural and normal desire.

Protection from Harm

Sister, oftentimes parents do set strict rules for their children given the dangers that are on social media. Sometimes parents are strict with who you go out with, what you do, and who you give your phone number to. It is in this way that they feel that they can protect you from any harm that may come. It is not that they don’t trust you, it’s more likely that they do not trust others and fear others may mislead or harm you. They are trying to protect you sister because they love you. It’s not just your parents who are strict. There are many parents who are strict in this way.

Talking with Parents

Sister I will kindly suggest insha’Allah, that you sit down with your parents and discuss your concerns. Please do so in a way it is not accusatory, but one that is friendly, respectful and open to suggestions. You may wish to explain to them that you do understand their concerns and you respect their position.

You may wish to discuss your good points. Give examples of how you made wise decisions. Insha’Allah, ask if there is a midpoint where you can meet with your parents, so that you will be able to go out with your friends once in a while as well as enjoy your phone.

You may wish to suggest a contract that includes things you will not do on your phone or when you visit your friends. There may be places that they don’t want you to go, just like there are social websites and media that they do not want you on. By developing a contract that outlines the things you will not do, it illustrates that you have thought about both sides and this is a sign of maturity. Perhaps it will put them more at ease. When you do have opportunities to show your parents that you are mature in your decision-making, I am sure they will feel more comfortable easing up with some of the restrictions insha’Allah.

Conclusion

It is a hard line to walk for parents because there are so many unsavory things that young people can get involved with these days. However, they do have to understand insha’Allah, that you are 17 and you will be an adult in another year. Insha’Allah, you need to learn to make good decisions regarding cell phone usage, social media choices as well as activities with friends. You can only learn through experience and practice. It would be beneficial to have your parents help you learn these things now. Insha’Allah sister, talk with your parents about a compromise with their guidance.

Wish you the best, you are in our prayers.