Why do parents contradict themselves(long)?

Well, I am uming mom isn't in the picture then. Ok, I think your dad, doesn't know how to handle things the best way. And if mom is not in the picture for whatever reason, he might just feel very protective over you. Doesn't want you hurt or gone and realizes you are a grown up now. If he is a single dad, raising a girl is probably really hard for him. He doesn't understand all of the emotions girls have and he doesn't relate to many things. If he is a single dad, he doesn't hurt you, get drunk all the time, and you live a decent life otherwise, I would try to cut him a little slack. With that said, maybe try sitting him down, talking to him, and help him to understand why you feel the way you do, what you think you should be able to do, and how you need him to act. Come up with an agreement, write it down, and both of you sign it. I know it sounds corny, but it might work. I don't think his goofy friends have any business in his parenting though, but if they were drinking, well, men will be men. And tell your dad he needs to be careful what he says, because one day you might get the friend who takes it seriously and calls the police on him for making threats! Just being honest. He doesn't sound like a horrible father and you said you didn't think he was. Just sit him down alone and talk, and if you have the relationship that calls for it, remind him you'll always need him and be his little girl, but that he needs to trust you and losen the apron strings a little. :o) Good luck!