Solving Problem Behavior

Brainstorm as a Family for Good Behavior

© Barbara Gibson

Problem behavior can feel overwhelming. Instead of trying to figure it all out alone, why not bring the whole family to the table for real solutions that just might work?

Four Steps for Solving Behavior Problems as a Family

Parents face a number of behavior challenges as children grow and pass through the usual stages. Some challenges, such as getting children to bathe, seem more manageable than others. For example: arguing and fighting among siblings; teen drug use, or school failure can sometimes feel like problems too big to handle.

When the problem feels big you can reduce overwhelm by thinking small. There is a proverb that advises eating the elephant one bite at a time. That’s good advice because, as much as you might wish otherwise, you are not a magician – you can’t wish the problem away. So what’s the next best thing? Try using these four steps to work through the problem one small step at a time.

Example: You and your sister have been arguing a lot lately, what’s going on?

Instead of: Why can’t you two get along? I’m sick of listening to all your arguing!

Notice the difference- the first example expresses concern and invites a response. The

second example does not.

Example: when you go out I expect you to call or leave a note before you go. When you

don’t leave a note I feel worried because I don’t know where you are).

You can significantly improve your success with these steps if you:

Example: knowing that children with ADHD often find it difficult to pay attention, have

a low frustration threshold, have trouble focusing on directions and difficulty following

through can help families set up realistic strategies to encourage school success.


The copyright of the article Solving Problem Behavior in Parenting Methods is owned by Barbara Gibson. Permission to republish Solving Problem Behavior must be granted by the author in writing.




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