When parents get tired of dealing with defiant teens, they often think of resorting to drastic measures like sending their teenager away to boot camp. Although these camps can be effective for some kids, they are very pricey and some of them resort to punitive measures that can be dangerous to the health and well-being of the children in their care. Although no parent would knowingly send their teen to such a camp, it is important to review the policies and philosophy of the boot camp before entrusting your child to them.
Many of these boot camps that offer help for defiant teens have web sites that detail all the information that you’ll need to get a good idea of the techniques they will use to turn your kid around. While this information is important, you should also ask for references and make sure to call them. Also check with the Better Business Bureau in the area to find out if there have been any complaints about the camp. If you do send your teen away, be aware that this can cause more problems, as your teenager may see this as an outright rejection.
Another option for dealing with defiant teens is to get your child therapy. A therapist who specializes in “behavioral therapy” is what you want. Behavioral therapy is designed to create observable changes in behavior.
Therapy can be quite effective, especially if you find a smart therapist who knows how to get past your teen’s defenses and connect with him. Although all therapists are trained in behavioral techniques, not all of them will be able to bond with your teen in the same way. Therapy does take time because the therapist must get to know your child, how he operates and what his issues are in order to help him change. It’s important to know going in that not all kids are open to talking about their problems with a stranger. If your teen won’t open up, then the therapy is less likely to work.
A third option is to buy a behavioral program that you can use at home to help turn around your teen. Behavioral techniques are not rocket science, so you don’t need to be a trained professional to learn how to use them. A good at home program will teach you exactly what to do to create observable changes in your teen’s behavior.
The benefits of an at-home program are many. First, instead of having someone else deal with your teen, you will learn how to use the skills that the professionals use. This means you will be much better equipped to help your teen. It also means that you won’t have to consult with a professional every time you have a problem. Instead, you just review the at-home program.
Another big plus is that as your teen’s behavior starts to change, he will credit you with helping him to turn his life around which opens the way for a stronger parent-child bond, making this an excellent way to get help for defiant teens.
Whichever option seems best to you, don’t wait. Dealing with defiant teens does not get easier unless you do something and do it fast.
Laura Ramirez is an award-winning author who helps parents who need help for defiant teens and other family-related issues. Read her review of the Total Transformation program, an at-home behavioral program for the parents of troubled teens.
