Families are not democracies. Each family has its own ways of deciding who has the power and authority within the family unit, and which rights, privi­leges, obligations, and roles are assigned to each family member.

In most families parents are expected to be the leaders or executives of the family; children are expected to follow the leadership of their parents. As chil­dren in the middle years grow older, they will ask for, and certainly should be allowed, more autonomy, and their opinions should be considered when deci­sions are made; however, parents are the final authorities.

Guest on the line: Coach Mathawe Matsapola - She wears many hats, life coach, seasoned journalist, inspirational speaker and entrepreneur