[johndfwtx2009]

Our older daughter, 17, decided to go AWOL for all of last week attending only the first day of school. We bought her a car over the summer and now there is a disagreement between my wife and I. I explained to her that I believe her driving should be suspended for 6 months due to this latest episode however she believes that is too extreme. I explained her actions were quite extreme to which there was no response. Now there are other issues involved since we were separated for 9 months and the older daughter has always felt she doesn't really need to answer for her actions, I'm sorry and I know it was wrong are always the easy way out with my wife and I am always about consequences. Unfortunately I have never bought that line because it continues to happen. I have been too strict on some issues in the past and understand and continually working to correct my mistakes, however I don't believe I am being too extreme in this case. Can anyone with driving teenagers lend some advice on what actions you take on this or other instances regarding driving privileges?

Thanks a million from a hurting man

[mcmama]

If she's using a car to ditch school, then that is an irresponsible use of the privilege that comes with the freedom of a car. So the car should be off limits until she regains your trust, or only used when you know where she is going and with whom.

Maybe not six months, but I wouldn't put a time limit on the restriction at first. She has to earn back the privilege. Maybe give it a month or so and then promise to re examine it as a family.

[pattiewrites]

I agree that six months may be a bit long, but there does need to be a consequence of she'll keep ditching. I know a single dad who had to pay a bunch of money in fines because his daughter was ditching after her dad left for work in the morning. If it came to that, she would pay the fine, not me, and I'd tell her so.

[ProudPapa]

6 months is too long. Don't set a date... I think the best thing you should do is just talk. Ask her what her problem is. If I may ask, why did she ditch school by the way? To be with a boy?