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When your child becomes a legal adult, you don't stop being his parent, but you do have to adjust and modify your parenting style. You wouldn't discipline a toddler the way you discipline a teenager, because each stage of development presents unique challenges that require different approaches. Adult children will not respond well if you implement the same punishments and expectations that were the norm in their adolescence. The challenge is to adapt your discipline approach to respect your child's new-found freedom, while clearly defining what behaviors and actions will not be tolerated.
Discipline is extremely important for all children, whether they're unruly or not. Children do not learn right from wrong on their own. Rather, they need to be taught from a young age in order to internalize these values as they grow up. What's more, they need to be disciplined rather than simply told right from wrong because their actions need to have tangible consequences. If you discipline children, you are making your values clear through your actions, which speak much louder than words.
If a children is difficult to discipline, it's important to gain an understanding of why they're resistant to parenting. Find out how to communicate authority calmly and confidently with help from a licensed clinical psychologist in this free video on children and discipline.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is an increasingly common diagnosis for children with behavioral problems. Children with ADHD are at increased risk for substance abuse, teen pregnancy, and even injury. Though some ADHD can be treated with medications, establishing an effective discipline program can create structures of consistency and support to help manage a child's ADHD behaviors.
Dealing with a child who does not listen or respond to discipline can be very frustrating for any parent, as well as for the child. The opportunity to teach the child appropriate action is often missed in the struggle. Parents can help a child who is resistant to discipline by creating an environment of accountability in the family with choices, appreciation and experiences to increase responsible actions.
