Whether parents should determine major choices for older teenagers remains contested. Although adults possess greater life experience and legal responsibility, young people aged fifteen to eighteen are close to adulthood. I largely disagree that parents should routinely decide on their behalf, because supported independence more effectively develops maturity and accountability during this transitional stage.

Older teenagers benefit substantially from making autonomous choices in real situations. Decisions about educational routes, casual employment, or social commitments influence motivation and personal discipline. When parents impose outcomes unilaterally, adolescents may comply outwardly without genuine commitment. For instance, a student forced into an unsuitable academic stream may disengage, whereas selecting a pathway independently often encourages persistence, confidence, and long-term engagement.

Nevertheless, parental involvement remains necessary in high-risk or irreversible circumstances. Choices involving serious medical treatment, legal obligations, or substantial financial commitments require adult judgement to reduce long-term harm. However, this protective role does not justify removing teenage independence entirely. A collaborative approach, in which parents advise, establish limits, and explain consequences, preserves safety while allowing young people to learn from responsibility and develop sound judgement within a secure framework.

In conclusion, parents should not make important decisions for older teenagers as a general principle. Acting primarily as advisors rather than final authorities respects developing maturity, minimises conflict, and equips adolescents with the decision skills required for responsible adulthood.