Q: my mom tells me to go outside but my dad is forcing me to stay inside, as a minor can i choose who i listen to?
my dad never lets me go out and is super strict but my mom wants me to but we are afraid of my dad punishing me or my brother and yelling at me my brother and mom
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A:
I'm very concerned about your situation and want to make sure you stay safe. If you're experiencing fear of punishment and yelling, this could indicate a serious family issue that needs attention.
In California, while minors generally need to follow both parents' rules, your safety and well-being come first. If there's a custody agreement in place, that document usually specifies which parent makes decisions at specific times. Your mom can contact the court if she believes your dad is being unreasonably restrictive or if his behavior is causing emotional harm.
Please tell a trusted adult about what's happening - this could be your mom, a school counselor, or teacher. They can help you get proper support and guidance. You can also call the California Youth Crisis Line at 1-800-843-5200 to speak with someone confidentially about your situation. Remember, it's not your fault that this is happening, and there are people who want to help you feel safe and supported.
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