A rebellious child is every parent’s worst nightmare. Children tend to rebel against rules and regulations from a very young age, although the rebellious attitude is more pronounced during teenage. Even a 6-7 month old baby is known to test its parent’s limits. How can parents prevent their children from becoming rebellious?

First, hear them out. Listen to what they have to say about a certain rule. Sometimes, children break rules, not out of rebellion but as a result f their circumstance so, they should be given a chance to explain. Simply scolding and blaming them will only trigger feelings of rebellion. For instance, if your child returns home late, you can ask him the reason for his tardiness and listen to what he has to say. It is entirely possible that his car broke down on the way. But, if it becomes a routine, you can take action.

Sometimes, children do the wrong thing because they do not know the right way to deal with a particular situation. This is especially true when it comes to teenagers. They may be confused and irritated, so the best way to deal with them is to try and talk to them and explain the right way to deal with certain situations and people.

Let your child know that you love him, and that any rule or discipline you enforce on him is an act done out of love and not in hate. When children know they are loved and cherished, they tend to become less rebellious. Spend time with your children and participate in their activities. Your role in their life is not just confined to that of parent or a rule maker, but also that of a friend.

Don’t be overprotective about your children. Give them a free rein in certain aspects of their life. Overprotective and possessive parents result in overly rebellious children. Like adults, children also crave for freedom. They need the freedom to make their own decisions. So, up to a certain extent, you should let them do it. True, they may make the wrong decision and end up hurt but some things in life have to be learnt that way. You cannot protect your child from every bump that life offers. Let them learn from their own experiences and learn how to face certain situations. You just have to be there for them throughout the learning and growing process.

Don’t compare your children with others. Being compared with more talented peers makes children feel incompetent and angry. This in turn results in rebellion.

Praise your children for their accomplishments no matter how small it is. This will instill in them the feelings of confidence and self worth. Being praised makes children feel good, and they will tend to keep up their positive deeds. For example, if you appreciate your child for helping out with the chores, they will feel happy and do it again. On the other hand, compelling them to pitch in will only make them more rebellious.

Keep these things in mind and you will be able to help your child through the frustrating and difficult times which cause feelings of rebellion and anger.

Jason Ladock

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