Dear Abby: College-bound senior doesn't measure up in parents' eyes

DEAR ABBY: I'm 18 years old. I play two competitive sports, maintain a 4.0 GPA, have good friends and will be attending the college of my dreams. Yet for some reason I cannot get along with my parents.

It seems like I can't live up to their standards. We get into huge fights every day over insignificant things. My parents continually tell me they don't think I will handle college very well because I "can't get along with people." But their lack of faith just frustrates me and we get into more fights.

The only people I don't get along with are my parents. This is unsettling because next fall I will be across the country from them, and I feel they will be happy that I'm gone. I'm at a loss as to what to do to control my temper and fix my relationship with my parents.

- Climbing the Walls in Cleveland

DEAR CLIMBING THE WALLS: It's possible that your parents may be suffering from separation anxiety. You, their child, are about to leave the nest, and they may be dealing with conflicting feelings of pride in your accomplishments and sadness that you are about to fly from the nest.

Talk to your parents about your feelings and explore what's going on. By focusing on what is triggering your negative emotions, you can not only defuse your anger but also retain your dignity, and possibly achieve a more informed understanding of how your parents may really feel.