Anybody here remember how much you always wanted your parents to watch you when you were little? Go back in time. Remember swimming at the local pool as a child? No matter how poor or perfect your swimming skills, you always kept on eye on Mom or Dad so you could catch their attention. Whether you were diving, dog paddling, or just hanging on the edge practice-kicking, your refrain was a constant "Watch this!" "Watch this!" "Watch me!" "Watch me again!!!"
All of us were anxious to gain parental approval, parental pride, or just plain parental attention of any kind. Just knowing Mom or Dad was watching made us feel safe, invincible, special.
Then came adolescence.
What happened? It was never quite that simple again. Teenagers struggle with their need for independence and self-expression …