DEAR ABBY: Our daughter, "Debbie," just turned 15. The problem is, an 18-year-old boy wants to hang out with her this summer and get to know her. Her father and I feel he is too old for her and have told her so. We think we are only asking for trouble if we allow it. Debbie is upset with us and is pushing the subject.
Are we doing the right thing? We trust her -- but we don't trust him. -- CARRIE IN CONNECTICUT
DEAR CARRIE: You are doing the right thing. Enforcing the rules is part of responsible parenting. Keep in mind that good parents are not always popular with their children.
Explain to Debbie that you are concerned about the balance of power in a relationship where there's such a disparity of age and experience. Tell her that in spite of her trustworthiness, it would be difficult to establish and enforce boundaries with someone that much older.
Perhaps it would be helpful for your daughter to participate in activities and sports with teens her own age. Goal-setting for college should also be a focus.