Why Do Children Become Defiant To Their Parents?

What do you do as a parent when your child will just not listen? Parents today are much less strict than in previous generations. Some parents even take it so far as to try to be “friends” with their kids rather than playing the authoritarian role.  However, this can lead to difficulties when it comes to getting your children to follow your directions when you are really serious about something. The child can become defiant because he is rebelling against your sudden change in personality, doesn’t want to do what you are instructing, isn’t used to having to follow strict rules, is over-stimulated or unsure in their environment, or in some cases because they are afraid of you.  If you find yourself the parent of an unruly child then taking parenting classes online, in the convenience of your own home and on your own schedule, might be just right for you.  Some reasons why children might become defiant are as follows: 

Reason 1 -Child Not Afraid Of Parent 

If a parent doesn’t establish authority early on, their kids end up believing that whatever they do, their parents will not be angry with them. So, when the parent decides to discipline their children, the children are surprised and don’t respond in a respectful manner.

Reason 2 -Child Afraid Of Parent 

For parents who are generally uninvolved with their kids, or overly strict, the child might become afraid of the parent.  The child feels like the parent doesn’t love him/her and rebels by being defiant. 

Reason 3 -Environment 

Your child can also become defiant from the things they see around them.  If they are around other children who are being rewarded after acting up, they might try to follow suit.  Also, be aware that you are the child’s most important role model.  If they witness you behaving in a defiant manner, they will copy your behavior.

Two Simple Tips On How To Parent A Defiant Child

-Listen To Your Child 

As parents we might not realize that we are often tuning out when our child is talking to us.  We have a lot on minds and are not focused on what the child is saying.  Children pick up on this and will feel like the only way to get your attention is to act up. 

-Never Get Irritated With Your Child

Do you best to not come across as irritated with your child. When your child starts to see you getting annoyed, they will act out. Just stay calm while they are having their tantrum, and make sure that you don't scream or get violent with them.  The more you escalate the situation, the more the child will misbehave.

Taking parenting classes online will further teach skills on how to handle a rambunctious, defiant child.  You might feel like you don’t need to take classes because you have already raised children or think you know how to handle them.  However, these courses will keep you current on the most recent parenting skills.  They are low-cost and can be taken around your busy schedule.