how do I tell my parents that I have a boyfriend?

The first step you must take here is addressing your own issues with this scenario. You say you are responsible and that the same mistakes will not be made. What you need to do is reinforce that (for yourself, not for others). Sexual intercourse will always involve the risk of pregnancy and so if you are having sex, you may wish to slow down (if it is your parents who you are thinking about). If you want them to trust you to not make the same mistake, then having sex is letting them down in a way. If you must do it, always use protection (preferrably with a spermacide as well).

Now addressing the issue of your parents. If they have quite clearly told you that they do not want you to have a boyfriend, you need to explain to them that we are all individuals. Just because your cousins made mistakes doesn’t mean you will. You need to tell her about your boyfriend sooner rather than later seeing as you have already been dating for 8 months. Explain to your parents that you care about this person and that neither he nor you would ever do anything to damage your relationship or hurt each other. Reassure your parents that you are not going to get yourself into a position where the same mistake can be made and that you and your boyfriend are both very responsible people.

More conservative parents often have issues with their daughters (more so than sons) having partners and you just need to let them know that you have thought everything through and you truly believe that this person is right for you and that he wouldn’t hurt you or do anything foolish. Offering them the opportunity to meet your boyfriend would be a positive step because it implies that you are very confident that he will make a positive impression.

Ultimately, you need to take things one step at a time. Address the issues yourself and prove to yourself that you won’t put yourself into a similar potentially catastrophic situation as the one your cousins did. When talking to your parents, sit down in the lounge room or somewhere quiet and explain to them that there is someone that you really care about and whom you have been dating for some time. Let them know that you didn’t avoid telling them because you wanted to be bad, you did it because you didn’t want them to be scared and worried about you all the time. Tell them that your boyfriend is a good person and that he cares about you and that he would never put you into an identical situation to what your cousins faced. Take your time and make sure they let you talk without interrupting you and make sure you give them plenty of time to respond as well.

Hope that helps :)!