I've had a similar experience in that time spent by myself in the "solitary" environment of a computer was very looked-down upon by my parents. I don't think either of them fully understood the amount of mental stimulation and learning that computers can provide. I was able to teach myself C in high school; this provided me with an advantage to other students in University in the introductory programming classes.

They never had any problem if I chose to watch TV socially instead of spend time alone. However, I rarely watch TV simply due to the lack of stimulation and interaction, not to mention the amount of garbage that is broadcast these days, unless it is in a social environment.

I have tried in the past to convince them of the benefits of what I am doing, but they simply refuse to acknowledge "computer time" as independent educational exercise.