Stop Defiant Child Behavior With 4 Key Advices



Posted: Monday, January 25, 2010

by
YourParentingHelp

Stopping defiant child behavior isn't too difficult but it requires consistency and good communication tools. That's why the advices I'm going to share with you can help you stop such behavior. You need to keep in mind that defiant child behavior starts as a response to your own behavior and it's only when children understands the rules you settle that they can change their behavior.

Let's learn how to make your child understand which behavior is acceptable and which one isn't.

1. Always apply right away a negative consequence to a bad behavior and a positive consequence to a good behavior. Parents tend to forget to reward their child's good behavior but if it takes an effort to your child and therefore has to be rewarded. Also, it's a great way to make your child choose to have a good behavior. He'll notice he can have a much nicer life by acting in a good way.

2. Give the choice to your child. Don't say "put this on" or "do this right now". Don't give orders, give choices. "The white shirt or the blue one". Stick to the choices you give. Repeat yourself if necessary.

3. Staying calm and firm is extremely important. Your outbursts will only worsen the situation.

4. Be consistent and your child will notice you never give in and that he'll never get what he wants by insisting or being defiant or annoying.

What your child needs is a structure. Often, defiant child behavior comes from an Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) which requires more than just a slight change in your own parenting attitude. Don't be afraid with such words. It's a label but kids are different and can't be labelled. Therefore, to prevent such behavior from being carried into adulthood by your child, the structure has to be settled as early as possible. Within the limits you set up, and if they are understood by your child, he'll grow up with values such as respect and will be able to handle problems.

The best way to definitely stop defiant child behavior is by applying a parenting method that gives support, a guideline and effective communication tools. Finding your parenting style is very important and that's why parenting programs can make a difference now and in the long-run. It's never too late to make that change happen.

Laura Kaine is the mother of June (10) and Jack (4). She shares her knowledge online as an expert parenting writer.

Need help parenting your child? Laura and some parents review a selection of effective parenting methods that worked for them at www.YourParentingHelp.com.

Request the "Smart Parentinf" and "Keeping Kids Busy" ebooks for FREE on their website!

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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)
» left by Jose Condemarin
1 year 357 days ago.
14 fans.
Laura,
 
That is I call reverse psychology. And we need to apply it very often, always loving them and making sure they can help you to make the right decision for them.
 
Thank you,
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