Teens have selective memories. But getting them to acknowledge it isn't always necessary

ANTHONY E. WOLF

"Sorry, Kayla. I'm just not comfortable with Steven coming over when I'm out."

"Omigod, we're not going to do anything. We're going to study. You think that I'm sex-crazed, which I'm not."

"No, I am just not comfortable with the two of you here alone."

The discussion continued downhill from there until Kayla threw a full-fledged tantrum, screaming at her mother, "I hate you. I hate you. I hate this house."

At which point, Kayla stormed off to her room.

Later that evening: "Kayla, you were way out of line earlier when I said you couldn't have Steven over. You can't behave that way."

"What way?"

Teens can be oblivious of their own behaviour. Promises to take out the trash? Five hours later, it's not taken out, and no memories remain of any promises.

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