Score one for parents

USA Today carried a story last week that ought to give anyone attempting to raise a teenager a shot of confidence.

Citing a couple of recent studies, the writer notes there is growing evidence that parents who set limits and enforce rules really do make a difference in their children's lives. In an age when "experts" seem to second-guess parents at every turn, it's encouraging to see parents being given credit for, well, acting like parents.

What caught my eye was the conclusion by researchers that "authoritative" parents seemed to have the greatest impact on their children -- not those who rule with an iron fist ("Because I said so, that's why") but who set firm rules AND take the time to explain them, the USA Today writer says.

Some parents, the writer notes, don't set limits or hesitate to enforce them because they fear conflict. A friend who works with troubled teens says too many parents want to be their kids' pal. Too often, she says, the teens in such situations gain the upper hand. Not a good thing.

No doubt it's easier to loosen up on the limits. No doubt your teenager will conclude that you're "cool" if you do. But as a parent who survived -- just barely -- the raising of two teenagers, I promise you it's a mistake.

It's often said that limits equal love. Believe it.