How do you tame a teenager?

I wish I knew. Until a few months ago my son was great. I cannot say I’ve never had any issues with him, but all in all it has always been possible to talk to him and make him see reason. In the last few months instead, that wonderful little boy with blue eyes and a lovely smile has turned into a green-eyed monster who loses his temper all the time, treats our house like a free hotel and expects more and more from us, especially from me. The fact that now he has a girlfriend has made things even worse. She is nice and kind but makes him feel strong and cocky as he knows that there is always someone on his side. It seems that he wants to rejects us, mother, father and sister but cannot and that makes him upset.

He cannot stand his dependence on us. I’m worried about his future. He doesn’t have the slightest idea of what he wants to do in life. He probably hopes he will win the lottery and spend his life in luxury without the need of working. Fat chance! He used to be excellent at school but now he’s lost any interest.

I’ve read somewhere that to tame a teenager you need unconditional love. You need to be firm but avoid arguing and shouting. I’ve tried all this but now I sometimes feel it would be better if I’d stop loving him. Because that way I wouldn’t feel hurt anymore. I've also read that difficult, strong-willed teenagers will likely one day be CEOs or other great leaders. If this is true, my son will soon become the President of the United States (without offense to dear Obama)!