Child Behavior Programs And Good Management- What Is The Connection ?
A recent article in the Wall Street Journal points out that good parenting is the same as good management in any business area! So, what are the principles of good parenting and how can they be applied to child behavior problems and defiant children?
One of the big problems in management is the lack of commitment and trust. In parenting, one of the most difficult areas in child behavior problems, is setting the boundaries and that means trust on both sides. It also means that both parties (parents and teenagers) are signed up to the various agreements which can range from homework to curfew contracts. Everybody knows the bottom line.
Another parenting principle, which is very similar to management styles, is that of accountability. Everybody is held accountable for their actions. That means taking responsibility and dealing with the consequences if they are not followed. It also means, of course that a good rewards system is in place so that good behavior is praised and rewarded. Just like employees who are praised and suitably remunerated for good results.
You see, bad management in a company is reflected in difficult manger/employee relationships, lack of trust on both sides and there is insufficient recognition of good results. Now we just need to apply all this to child behavior problems. Easier said than done!
Child behavior programs will help parents to get through the parenting jungle without getting lost. Learning from these programs will help parents to set the boundaries and implement a rewards and consequences program. The lack of trust can be overcome by involving the teens in setting up the homework contracts. There are also great strategies for dealing with defiant children, child anger and general teen behavior. You will know exactly how to deal with teenager attitude and cope with victimization and lack of motivation.
It is interesting to observe that the UK government has set aside funds for parents to attend courses in parenting skills where the above mentioned problems are dealt with. Good parenting ? Just a question of good management skills!
