Are you dealing with a teen that has little to no respect for you or your authority as a parent? Is your teen also blatantly disrespectful of the authority of others, such as teachers, principals, or, in some cases, law enforcement? Perhaps your teen has been diagnosed with Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD). This may make them confrontational or make them feel that things must be done their way or no way.
You should seek professional help if your teen is displaying any of these symptoms:
- Hostility (especially toward figures of authority)
- Outright Disobedience
- Blatant Defiance
- Consistent Negativity
Along with these behaviors, your teen may also throw temper tantrums, constantly place blame on others, refuse to listen or follow rules and requests, argue with adults and even their peers, act spiteful or vindictive at times, and show academic problems.
If ODD is greatly affecting your teen’s personal and educational life, chances are it is severely affecting your family life. Even if your child doesn’t suffer from ODD, he or she may still be defiant and causing problems at school and home. Some teens may display some of these traits as they go through puberty. Whatever the cause, defiant teens can quickly begin to spiral out of control when they are faced with rules and authority.
If left untreated, ODD and other defiant behaviors can quickly destroy family relationships, friendships, and cause the teen to act out. As a parent, it can be frustrating to learn how to cope and deal with this unpredictable disorder. However, you should not have to face this alone.
A boarding school that offers structure, discipline, and a schedule can help the teen learn to cope with their defiant traits. Having a regimented daily routine that involves academics, extracurricular activities, sports, and essential responsibilities, the teen will learn that authority and rules are there for a reason. They can have constant 24-hour supervision from skilled staff members that are ready to talk and listen to the teen.
It is important for the teen to come to an understanding about the importance and reasoning for certain rules. By using critical thinking skills, teens will be forced to see the good in authority. Teens should also be given certain chores and expectations that are reasonable. Small moments of success in achieving these chores can help your teen learn the importance of responsibility.
A Christian boarding school can offer all of these services and more to your struggling teen. They are there to help regain lost friendships and relationships, along with create life changing habits that can be followed and understood for years to come.
If your teen is displaying symptoms of defiance, please do not hesitate to visit a nearby Christian boarding school to learn more about how a boarding school can help your teen cope.
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