Quote Originally Posted by chicajojobe
Okay, I'm closer to your step sons's age too, so I agree with Hannah about the respect issue. Sure you can demand it all you want, but that doesn't necessarily gurantee you'll get it.

HOWEVER, that being said, I think you more than deserve it in this situation. You're absolutely right. He's living in your house so he should behave properly. I also don't agree with the acting out because you're the step parent thing. He's 18 not 8. He's too old to be acting that way, but, then again, it doesn't sound like maturity is his strong suit since he was complaining about you saying bad things about sports teams. Sports teams? Give me a freaking break! [img]smileys/smilies_12.gif[/img]

I also think sage's suggestion is a good idea. Just lay it out for him that his personal hygeine may technically be his own business, but he won't be allowed to ride in your car unless he's showered, teeth brushed, and has on clean clothes.


Thanks!!! Oh, and I know what you mean about the sports team thing---jeez, get a life, you know??


And you're right, just because I demand respect, doesn't mean he'll give it, but when he doesn't, that's when he's out on the streets, and I just won't care anymore. Thank you so much for saying that I do deserve respect from him, I appreciate that and agree with you.


The hygeine thing, yeh, I will have to say something, because I either have to smell his sweat, or his pungent breath from the back seat! It literally gives me that gag feeling in the back of my throat, and it's too cold to roll the windows down.