Parenting Through Difficult Behavior

When children display difficult behavior, parents can be left feeling overwhelmed, ineffective, detached, and frustrated. While these behaviors are not necessarily a direct result of parent techniques, modifying our approach can usually help reduce difficult behaviors in children. Parent training is a type of therapeutic intervention in which a therapist works directly with the parents to help them learn how to manage difficult behaviors in their children. This type of work can be done on its own, or in addition to individual therapy provided to the child to build emotional regulation and improve coping skills.

Working with a therapist to do parent training can have many benefits. By empowering parents with the skills and knowledge they need to address challenging behaviors, parent training promotes positive behavior and improves the relationship between parents and children. Therapists who provide parent training offer parents personalized support and guidance, helping them to develop strategies that are tailored to their specific situation and their child's needs. In addition, parent training sessions allow space for parents to process their own emotional experiences related to their child's behavior.

There are many reasons why a child may display difficult behaviors. By working with a parent trainer, parents can learn how to identify the underlying causes of these behaviors and develop strategies for addressing them in a positive and effective way.Common types of difficult behaviors that parents may need help managing include tantrums, aggression, defiance, and impulsivity.

Some specific strategies used in parent training for children with difficult behaviors include:

1. Positive reinforcement: This involves praising and rewarding positive behaviors in children. By providing positive feedback for good behavior, parents can help encourage their children to continue behaving in a positive way.

2. Consistency: Consistency in discipline and rules can help children understand what is expected of them and reduce confusion and frustration.

3. Clear communication: Effective communication can help parents and children understand each other and work together to address difficult behaviors. Some children benefit from visuals to support verbal communication. By talking openly and honestly with their children, parents can help them understand why certain behaviors are not acceptable and what they can do to improve.

4. Time-out: Time-out can be an effective way to help children calm down and reflect on their behavior. Generally, time outs should be 1 minute x their age (i.e. 5 minute time out for a 5 year old).

5. Problem-solving: Parents can work with their children to identify the underlying causes of difficult behaviors and develop strategies for addressing them. Try engaging in a collaborative conversation to encourage the child’s involvement in problem solving.

You do not need to feel frustrated and overwhelmed by your child’s behaviors. Reaching out for support and guidance can provide a huge relief for you and your child. Parent training sessions can help to positively shift the dynamics within your family and your home.