Psychologists recommend that parental responses to a child’s rebellious behavior should avoid both ignoring the actions and reacting with excessive anger. Instead, the recommended approach involves maintaining composure, establishing clear boundaries, and actively listening to understand the underlying message the child is attempting to convey. Experiencing a phase of testing boundaries through challenging behavior is a common developmental stage for many children, and parents frequently face this particular difficulty.
However, child psychologist Laura Markham advised in an article for Psychology Today that even when such behavior is common or temporary, specific actions are necessary when a child responds disrespectfully or aggressively. Markham noted that while some advice suggests simply ignoring provocative behavior, she argues that doing so is not always advisable. She explained that when a child expresses feelings of dissatisfaction, anger, or nervousness toward their parents, it is important to address the source of the emotion rather than simply dismissing the outward display.
Understanding what the child is communicating is key. Therefore, parents must learn what to do when their child is acting out. The focus should shift from punishing the behavior itself to addressing the underlying need or emotion that prompted the child’s actions.
Topics: #child #what #when
