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"Adult" or "Minor"?

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JJGeronimo

Junior Member
What is the name of your state? Illinois

My question pertains to 18 year old's rights. I turned 18 on September 2004, and while I know I am considered an "adult", very few sources have rarely defined what the rights of an 18 year old are.

Friends tell me I have no curfew, I can "do whatever I want", etc. What I really want to know is whether my parents have a say in all the daily functions of my life. I still live with them currently at home until I move to the college dorms during the summer of 2005. Currently, my parents still set a curfew for me, saying that even though the law says I have no curfew, they set one for me since I'm living under their house and their rules. They also have issues with what time I come home during the school nights (I am a senior in HS), hanging with friends, etc.

Am I still considered an "adult", or does the fact that living with my parents still consider me a "minor"? I understand that my parents, especially my mom, might be going through some psychological issues since I'm leaving for college soon and they're gonna be by themselves. Of course, theyre also going to be very happy. I respect their negativity though, but they have to understand that they're gonna have to "let me go". Overall, It's been very confusing and frustrating for me so I was wondering if anyone can offer me some advice? Thanks!
 
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Happy Trails

Senior Member
JJGeronimo said:
What is the name of your state? Illinois

My question pertains to 18 year old's rights. I turned 18 on September 2004, and while I know I am considered an "adult", very few sources have rarely defined what the rights of an 18 year old are.

Friends tell me I have no curfew, I can "do whatever I want", etc. What I really want to know is whether my parents have a say in all the daily functions of my life. I still live with them currently at home until I move to the college dorms during the summer of 2005. Currently, my parents still set a curfew for me, saying that even though the law says I have no curfew, they set one for me since I'm living under their house and their rules. They also have issues with what time I come home during the school nights (I am a senior in HS), hanging with friends, etc.

Am I still considered an "adult", or does the fact that living with my parents still consider me a "minor"? It's been very confusing and frustrating for me so I was wondering if anyone can offer me some advice? Thanks!

It's not really confusing. When children reach adulthood (or close) it is not uncommon for you to want to resist the rules of your parents.

You are an adult, you can vote, sign contracts and have the privileges that a minor does not have.

The issue on whether you now can call the shots while living in your parents house; well they do have a right to put conditions on anyone in their household. They are providing a roof over your head and supporting you.

Hang in there, you'll be out on your own soon enough.
 

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