Are curfews effective in keeping teens out of trouble?

[A, Crazy.]

Opinions?

[Terri]

I think it depends. For some - yes. For others who rebel - not so much. But I would argue that the main reason teens get into trouble is often boredom.

[Bloodyhell]

I had curfews which I only found out when I broke one, turns out parents will freak out if you are not home after 10 pm...It wasn't my fault that they didn't tell me about it =.=

[A, Crazy.]

I don't have much curfews....but the few I have are effective enough to keep me out of trouble....my parents freak out too much if I'm not inside after 9 pm. So I know better than to break any of my curfews...

[Indiabookstore]

I never experienced curfews till really recently- nevertheless, my parents are flexible and understanding enough to realise why I can't always commit to a specific time.

I think curfews are only effective if both sides trust each other and understand the need for a curfew in the first place. You have to understand why you're doing something to follow it. I see it more as a method of reassurance than control, so I'm happy to follow them.

[A, Crazy.]

Indiabookstore wrote: "I never experienced curfews till really recently- nevertheless, my parents are flexible and understanding enough to realise why I can't always commit to a specific time.

I think curfews are only ..."

Yes...totally, if both sides trust each other, and if the teen understands why he has been given curfews, he shouldn't have much trouble follwoing it...

[Feliks]

martial law instead

[Jojobean]

I don't think so. For some yes, but others no. They can get into just as much trouble before curfew as after it. Plus giving a curfew to keep teens out of trouble will just ensure that they will find ways to get around it or break it.

Now giving teens a curfew because you want them to be home and safe at a decent hour is different and I agree with that one.