Household Rules Broken by Teenagers: A Perspective from an Adult Child

Surveying the landscape of family dynamics, it's quite common for teenagers to challenge household rules set by parents. As an adult child living with grandparents and a parent, I've personally experienced a variety of these scenarios, where the rules seem to exist more for convenience than for the well-being of those under their care. Here, we delve into the specific rules that I, a 24-year-old, regularly break without my guardians knowing, and the rationale behind these actions.

House Rules and Personal Responsibility

One of the most significant rules in our family is the frequency of water changes for a large 135-gallon aquarium housing over 40 exotic tropical fish. My grandparents, understanding the importance of regular maintenance for my fish, have attempted to limit my water changes to once a month. However, this approach would harm the health of the fish, which I am determined to protect at all costs. My fervent argument for more frequent changes is met with resistance, primarily due to concerns about the financial strain such an effort might cause them. In a display of passive-aggressive defiance, I continue to perform weekly water changes, knowing full well the consequences if my actions were discovered.

The Rationale Behind My Actions

It's not just about the fish; it's about how I can ensure the health and well-being of these creatures, which I personally provided for. The water changes are a labor of love, necessary for maintaining a balanced ecosystem that supersedes the convenience I receive in return. In my opinion, fairness is about more than just financial considerations; it's about ensuring the quality of life for living beings in my care.

Examples of Other House Rules

Another notable rule in our household is the prohibition against using the garden hose for vaping. Despite scientific evidence that vaping does not leave behind visible stains similar to cigarette smoke, my grandparents remain steadfast in their ban. This rule extends to my father, who, despite showing him contrary evidence, still adheres to the old ways. The reasoning behind this rule, which cites concerns about property damage, is outdated and disconnected from current realities of vapor products.

The inflexibility of my grandparents is further highlighted in their decision not to allow smoking or vaping in the house. Both my grandmother, who quit smoking 10 years ago, and my grandfather, who still smokes, continue to adhere to this rule. This stubbornness, despite clear evidence that vaping is less harmful, stems from a fear of change and a reluctance to modernize their understanding.

Respect and Communication

While these broken rules might seem like minor transgressions, they highlight a broader issue of respect and communication within the family. My grandparents and I, though I'm an adult, still have a dynamic where my decisions are often met with resistance rather than open dialogue. Understanding and respect are essential for a healthy household, and I believe that my actions, driven by a genuine concern for the well-being of my pets, deserve to be met with an open mind.

Ultimately, these situations underscore the importance of family discussions and a willingness to adapt to new information and realities. It's a delicate balance of asserting personal responsibility and maintaining respect for the concerns and boundaries of loved ones. In this ever-evolving world, finding that balance ensures a harmonious living environment for all involved.