Effective Disipline of Teenagers

What is the best way to discipline a stubborn teen? Below are some parent- tested tips to get you started.....

1. Make sure you sit down with your teen and clearly spell out what behavior is acceptable and what isn't, talk about your household rules and your child's limitations.

2. Be sure to make a BIG deal out of the positives. Don't are not as good as Do's. Be careful of using too many don'ts.

3. Give your teenagers more responsibility when he or she makes good decisions. Teenagers build self-confidence by making their own decisions. Be sure to let them make their own. If they fail then treat it as a lesson learned.

4. The number 1 thing to remember is to ALWAYS be consistent and follow through. If you tell your child his curfew is 11pm and he comes home at 11:30pm follow through on the discipline discussed. If there are circumstances that couldn't be helped then you can give a little but if you are not consistent they will think they can get away with coming in late each night and nothing will be done. By the time you realize this it may be too late.

5. Try not to get angry when disciplining your children. I know it may be difficult but it is best not to. If you are lashing out at your child it will put them on guard and you will both end up in a screaming match which will not help the situation. Speak to them calmly. If you cannot do that right away take a few moments to calm yourself down and then re-visit the "talk".

6. Never criticize the child only the "bad choice" he or she made.

7. Realize that discipline is a life-long gift of love. It will help your teen to achieve, to get along with others and to grow in his/her capacity to have mature and intimate relationships. Be aware that discipline teaches your child boundaries and will help them in every aspect of their lives, from achievement to friendships to relationships..