How to Parent Violent Children
- 1). Understand that the situation will most likely get worse before it begins to improve. A violent child is acting out for a reason. Therefore, finding that reason and working on it will take time. Be patient with the child and the current situation. Refrain from becoming frustrated and easily upset as this may show lack of control.
- 2). Be persistent with parenting strategies. Parents of violent children may shy away from restricting the child when the child acts out. Instead of giving in, or shying away from consistency from fear that the child will express violent behavior, be the parent and make sure the child realizes the parent is in control.
- 3). Refuse to discuss anything of importance with the child during an outburst or if the child is being abusive. The child may be acting out to get attention, and getting attention during violent behavior is not a good idea. Discussions should be held during a time when everyone involved is calm.
- 4). Refrain from using physical punishment on a child who is already violent. This may make the child even more oppositional and cause further harm to the situation. Instead of physical punishment, list a set of consequences and take away what the child likes the most. This may be a video game, trip to the mall or even watching a favorite television show.
- 5). Spend time with the child as often as possible. Grab a bite to eat at a favorite restaurant, take the child on a bike ride or throw the ball back and forth in the backyard. Sit down and have a normal discussion with the child about life in general. Be sure the child knows you want to spend quality time with her.
- 6). Tell the child he is loved, cared for and respected. Point out the child's accomplishments, and be sure the child understands how proud you are of what he has achieved thus far in life. Encourage activity in sports or other extracurricular activities that may help raise the child's self-confidence level.
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