Final answer:
The nurse should investigate further when a parent says, "I allow my teenager to make their own decisions without any guidance." Adolescents need a balance of autonomy and parental guidance to help form their identities and make informed choices.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement by a parent that should prompt the nurse to investigate further is: C. "I allow my teenager to make their own decisions without any guidance." Adolescents are at a crucial stage of development where they are forming their identities and becoming more independent. However, it is also a period when they need guidance and support in making decisions. Balance is key, and while it is important for adolescents to have a sense of autonomy, they also require appropriate boundaries and guidance from their parents. Allowing teenagers to make all decisions without parental input can lead to them feeling overwhelmed or making ill-informed choices, especially in critical aspects of their life such as health, education, and behavior. Parental influence remains significant even as adolescents seek more independence and often spend more time with peers. While peers are influential, research indicates that parents are reported by teens as being the greatest influences on their behavior, especially in significant areas like sexual behavior. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a balance between encouraging independence and providing the necessary guidance to help adolescents navigate these formative years.