How to Discipline a Teen
All parents who are raising teenagers in today's hectic world know that disciplining them can be tricky. You have to weigh the punishment with the crime and make sure you are constantly enforcing the rules. But many parents lack the skills to effectively discipline their teen. Learn how to discipline your teen and be assured that they know exactly why they are being disciplined.
Instructions
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Talk to your teen about what he did. You first must discuss with your teen what they did and why they are in trouble for doing it. Do not yell; this will only make them tune you out. Instead, casually and calmly explain to them why they are in trouble.
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Let your teen know why his action or behavior was unacceptable and why you are going to punish him. Your teen is likely testing boundaries and anxious for direction. Let him know what he did was wrong and that he is going be punished for the unacceptable action or behavior.
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Decide on an appropriate punishment and make sure that the punishment fits the crime. Whether it is grounding or revoking privileges, make sure the punishment is something he will remember and will associate with his behavior.
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Stand firm and enforce the punishment. Your teen will try to do anything and everything to get out of his punishment once it has been handed down to him. You must stand firm and enforce the punishment so the lesson is learned.
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Tips & Warnings
Enforcing the punishment as soon as possible will help your teen connect the punishment to the unacceptable behavior or action.
Find out what matters most to your teen and use that as leverage in your punishment. If your teen loves video games, losing the privilege to play will be an effective punishment.
Being clear with your behavioral expectations can limit the amount of punishment you hand out to your teen.
Don't wane--unless you want your teen to know that he can get away with anything.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit teenager image by Chef from Fotolia.com