Scenario: disrespectful behaviour

In this scenario, Megan rudely refuses to visit Grandma with the rest of the family.

Option 1: let it go

One option is to let your child’s behaviour go. Although this might help you to avoid conflict, there’s the risk that it will reward the behaviour. This means you might get more disrespect in future. See how.

Let it go: parents and teens comment

Here’s what parents and teenagers think of the approach of letting disrespectful behaviour go.

Option 2: remind

If your child behaves disrespectfully, you can remind your child of your expectations and the agreed consequences for disrespectful behaviour. This can work well, especially if you stay calm. See what happens with this approach.

Remind: parents and teens comment

Here’s what parents and teenagers think of the approach of reminding teenagers of expectations and consequences.

Option 3: be strong

You might choose to be strong and maintain your authority as a parent when your child behaves disrespectfully. Although this approach can get immediate results, it can also be a missed opportunity to help your child learn about the behaviour you expect. See what happens.

Be strong: parents and teens comment

Here’s what parents and teenagers think of the approach of being strong and maintaining authority.