In a western context 16 is rightly considered an age where right is known from wrong.Originally Posted by NickA
However, this is SE Asia and Thailand. A 16 year old here is not comparable to a western 16 year old IMHO. They are not as worldly or mature as their western counterparts, not even close. Even up to the age of 23 or 24, I have heard educated Thai adults refer to that age group as "still children"
The mental development of a Thai 16 year old probably equates to about 12 in the western world. This will have a bearing on the behavioural expectations that a western parent puts on any children here.
DD is probably thinking his son should be acting like a man, an adult, taking responsibility for his actions and doing the right thing. His son is falling short of expectations, obviously.
DD did mention recently that his son ignored a police officer who was flagging him down and fled past him on his motorbike. I cant say I'm surprised this kid has gotten a good tanning. I've been there, done that, and can say it didn't do me any harm at all.


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