Children have almost no self-rights. Everything they have is provided to them by adults. We choose their food, we pick their clothing, and allow them possessions. We own their shelter, dictate their playtime, sleep time, screentime, the words they can and can't say...and they are only allowed to have friends that we approve of. We even try to shape their identities into ones that we prefer. And then they go to school where they are under even stricter rule.
Kids don't understand how the restrictions we impose are really helping them...All they know is that they didn't get what they want, and they can't do anything about it. In fact, kids have a lot to be upset about.
As children grow, they slowly gain more rights and independence. During this period, some children do things solely for purpose of proving that they are in control of their own lives. This is the heart of rebellion. Kids (especially teens) will engage in behavior that parents don't approve of - just because we don't approve of it - Think about it...What better way of proving that you own yourself, than by doing something that you're not allowed to do!
So how do we guide them through this process?
Start giving them a paying job even as early as 3 years old. Let them keep their money in a piggy bank, and let them choose what they want to buy with their earnings. (See: Children Chores and Character)
Help them learn to cook their own meals of choice.
Let them pick (or buy) their own clothes, as long as not outrageously inappropriate.
Respect their side when you personally disagree with them, and show it.
Include them in the rule-making process. No, they don't get to make the rules, but allow them a voice.
Help them understand these emotional factors of rebellion.
Summary
Rebellion occurs more commonly in adolescence, which is associated with hormonal imbalance. This makes for a volatile mix of children protesting their limitations while being emotionally unstable. (See: Hormonal Teens. What do you do?)
Rebellion can also be influenced by children not having their basic needs met, such as love, safety, and security.
While rebellion can be seen as a natural process of development, it's usually a negative experience for both parent and child. However, we can do things to help reduce its level and intensity.