If your parents are driving you mental and it feels like they're out to destroy your social life, one curfew at a time, then read on... Axle Whitehead knows a thing or two about strict pearz - and he's sharing his wisdom with you!

Frustrating, much?

Although I had a fairly good relationship with my parents as a teen, I did get in trouble quite a bit, so I copped a lot of lectures. I was a pretty naughty kid. Not that bad, but I just hated rules and being contained. Most 16- and 17-year-olds have a problem with authority and go through a period of being wise beyond their years. A lot of problems stem from a lack of communication. I found it very hard to be open and honest with my parents growing up and it wasn't until I was in my mid-twenties that I became fully open with them. I think that's totally normal.

Rules are good (yes, really!)

We all think our parents are the strictest out there when we're growing up. Personally, I wasn't allowed any TV after school. It was music practice and riding my horse for me! Believe it or not, now I'm very grateful for that! As hard as it may be, you need to remember that whatever rules your parents impose, they're doing it out of love and not just coz they want to torture you. As frustrating as it is sometimes, being taught the difference between right and wrong and to show respect is vital. Being spoilt only makes life much tougher down the track. I'd rather have strict parents than super lax ones. Coz when you leave home, it'd feel like a whole new world rather than being totally bored with everything. There's no such thing as perfect parents, but the best relationship is when there's a balance of friendship and discipline.

Could be worse

No matter how Hitler-esque you feel your 'rents are being, remember, there's a reason for their rules - and it could be much worse. I've heard of teens having their music, emails and phone calls censored and were even chaperoned on their dates (ick)! That's taking things a bit too far. When parents are totally guarding their kids from the outside world, then that's a bit too strict. You will probably find a way to do what you want anyway, and it's important for parents to realise that and let their kids know there's a safe place to come home to.

Talk it out

If you feel like your parents are being overly strict, try and see things from their perspective. If you can cut them some slack and let them know how you feel, then the relationship can open up and find a healthy middle ground. If you're fighting about a particular issue, you should broach the topic first. I think then your parents will give you a lot or respect. Sometimes it's just as hard for parents to be honest with their kids as it is for kids to be with their parents. Say something like: "I understand that your concern is out of love, and I totally respect that, but you need to trust that I have good instincts, which you've taught me." Notice the compliment in there? Guaranteed brownie points. You should also reassure your pearz that you can handle yourself and have good friends to watch your back. Hopefully you'll get the keys to the world!

'Rents worse than yours

Still annoyed with your parents? Besides the fact that they love you heaps, just think - at least they're not like...

• Noah Levenstein (Jim's dad in American Pie). He tries to be understanding but just makes everything super embarrassing and awkward.
  Lily van der Woodsen (Serena's mum in Gossip Girl). One minute she's too busy to pay any attention to Serena, the next she's having her arrested (WTF?!).
  Margaret White (Carrie's mum in Carrie). She thinks her daughter is a demon. This woman is the mother of all scary mothers. Crazy scary.