I love my mom. She's my best friend – no fake. I count her and my dad among my BFFs. I'm an only child, you see, so I've always been close to both my parents, but especially my mom. She's my person. I tell you all of that lovey-dovey back story to tell you this: we fought like cats and dogs when I was younger. We butted heads all the time. It happens. Mothers and daughters fight, even when they're closer than close. Every mother/daughter relationship is its own unique thing, but many of the arguments we have are universally similar. See?
1. Typical Teenage Rebellion
The rebellion is typical, anyway, but every daughter rebels a little bit differently.
2. The Fight for Independence
This begins sometime around 12 or 13 and ends when moving out is an actual reality because the adult world is a scary, scary place.
3. The Fight against Authority
All authority, but especially maternal authority. A girl will spend hours plotting against her mom's authority. Her plans are often diabolical.
4. The Battle to Become a Woman
Daughter is eager to be her own woman. Mom is determined to hold onto her little girl just a bit longer. Epic battles ensue.
5. The Attempt to Pull Away
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Daughters always try to pull away. We don't know any better. We're really just asserting our independence but we don't realize the error of our ways until a bit later.
6. Parents Just Don't Understand
Mothers, you will hear this. A lot. Like all the time. However, even though your daughter will accuse you of not understanding or not remembering what it was like to be her age, try to remember – it'll help.
7. The Disappointment Disagreement
Ugh, this is the worst. Knowing that you disappointed your mom is the absolute worst. It makes you feel so defensive that an even larger fight is usually the result.
8. The Mom Knows Best Fight
Daughters seem incapable of believing this until after the fact. In retrospect, however, mom generally does know best, yes.
9. The Grown up Disagreement
If you got a nickel for every time you told your mom you're not a little kid anymore, you'd have enough money to move out.
10. The Friend Fight
Daughters, you will always have at least one friend your mom doesn't like. Mothers, that friend isn't going anywhere until your daughter's good and ready.
11. Of Periods and PMS
Sometimes you bond over your menses. Sometimes it's just World War III.
12. The Clothing Spat
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No matter what your style, your mom will have something to say at one point.
13. The “I'm a Cool Mom” Battle
Daughters, there will come a time where your mom tries to fit in with your friends. This too shall pass.
14. The “do as I Say, Not as I do” Fight
This fight is twofold. Sometimes your mom wants you to follow in her footsteps and you resist. Sometimes you try to follow in your mom's footsteps and she resists. Fun times!
15. Boyfriend Battles
Or girlfriend battles, depending on who tickles your pickle. You'll have at least one partner whom your mom just hates, though.
16. Party Debacles
When you first start attending parties or going on dates, the fights are never ending.
17. The Inevitable Fight about College Life
Your mom is undoubtedly proud of you, but college is just as scary for your parents as it is for you.
What's the most common fight you have with your mom?
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do moms and daughters fight so much?
- I know, it can be really rough sometimes. Moms and daughters are super close, which is great, but it also means emotions are always running high. Our moms want the best for us, but that can feel like pressure or control, leading to clashes. It’s totally normal, even though it doesn’t always feel that way.
- Is it normal for mothers and daughters to have physical fights?
- Honestly, physical fights are a bit extreme and can even be harmful. While yelling and bickering are more common, physically fighting isn't healthy. If it’s happening, it might be worth talking to someone like a family counselor to help sort things out.
- How can you stop arguing with your mom?
- Easier said than done, right? Try to catch yourself before the argument starts. Take a deep breath and maybe take a break to cool down. Sometimes, just remembering your mom's intentions are usually good can help keep things calm.
- Why does my daughter blame me for everything?
- That’s tough to hear, isn't it? Daughters often lash out at moms because you’re safe to vent to. It might feel unfair, but it's common in those tight-knit relationships. Try talking it out calmly when things are settled. Communication can really help.
- Are mother-daughter fights different from other family arguments?
- Definitely! The bond between a mother and daughter is unique, which makes the arguments feel more intense. The emotional connection is deep, so disagreements can feel a lot more personal. But that also means the love is deep enough to work through the tough times.