Q&A: My Father Controls Me

Q. My father is very controlling and strict. He beats me if I don't obey him. I want to leave home but I have no money and nowhere to go. I want to finish school and I have a year left but how can I leave home now?

Womba Wanki is a lawyer with Generation Alive. She says:

Every parent wants the best for their children, unless in extreme circumstances.

Most, if not all, parents also set rules for their children so that they may grow into good and productive citizens.

That said, Zambia outlawed corporal punishment some years ago and it is punishable.

Leaving home may seem like a good option but are you ready to handle the responsibility of of being alone without any support system?

Talk to an aunt so that they can speak with your father. Or visit Generation Alive or the YwCa for counselling. These two organisations are amoungst those that counsel parents, reminding them of their responsibilities. They also counsel children and can tell you of your rights and responsibilities as a child.

Do you want to ask Womba a question about rights? You can ask all day on Thursday and get answers. Find how to contact Generation Alive or the YwCa below: