Constantly talk about your friends and how their parents are like to them, talk in third person and tell your mother how she treats you but pretend your talking about how your friend is feeling towards her mother. Soon your parents will see their errors of their ways and be too embarassed to confront you.

Talk honestly to your parents, but without being defensive. Ask them why they set certain rules and ask if maybe those rules could be changed based on your good behavior. If you take some responsibility for yourself and show them that you can act like an adult, they may loosen up a bit. But, remember that they may not and you have to be prepared to concede that they may have good reasons for their rules.

To be honest, I think a parent that is overbearing is usually one for life! I had screaming matches with my mother when I was young and I know my husband did with his too. Even though were are in our 30's (He's nearly 40) Our parents are still, nosey, fussy and overprotective. As soon as we had kids they moved on to them too. All I can say is it is not constant and only out of love and concern. If you are still only in your teens, be patient. Once you are old enough to leave, do what you like but don't go over the top and hurt them or yourself. As we get older most of us realise that our parents don't want us to get a tattoo or get drunk because we may regret it later.

Is there a reason for them being so protective I wonder? If there is, then you need to have some understanding and don't give them reasons to doubt your sense. Is it too much to tell them where you are, when you're expected back, who you're with etc? If you constantly return late, not telling them where you are etc they are bound to worry. Give them a break and let them learn to trust you and let you go gradually. I write as a bereaved mum who is aware of becoming overprotective of my only child.