If a parent instructs a child to transgress a prohibition, even a rabbinic one, the child may not obey, as parents too are obligated to observe the mitzvot. Therefore, if a parent demands that a child break off contact with a relative or neighbor with whom the parent is quarreling, the child may not listen, as that would involve transgressing the mitzva of loving your fellow as yourself. What about when a parent makes demands regarding the child’s life, such as the choice of a spouse or profession? Although the child must listen carefully and seriously consider the parent’s position, the final decision is up to the child. After all, it is the child’s life and not the parent’s life which is at stake.
