Page 192 - ILIAS ATHANASIADIS AKA RO1
P. 192
God only knows what his childhood was like. He never told us about it I never ask him.
Maybe he was abused? Maybe his father was a monster? We all act upon action we
have experienced as children.
There is no Excuse for Violence
Violence is Used to Solve Problems
Kids often use violence to deal with frustration, disappointment, and anger. It’s how
they solve these problems. And they do it because it actually works.
Their violence and threats of violence actually get them what they want. And it’s how
they gain power in the home.
When the violent child hears the word “no” and feels frustrated and powerless, he hits
someone or something. To diffuse the situation, or out of fear, the parents give in and
don’t require him to comply.
Striking out gives the child a sense of power and control in a world where, as a young
adult, he has little of either.
The Power of Violence Needs to be Taken Away
If kids are gaining power by being violent, the first thing that you have to do is take
away the power by not tolerating the violence. Violence is a seductive shortcut to
power.
And once it works, it’s hard to get kids to accept more productive ways of gaining
influence, such as through working, learning, and building life skills.
Many times, parents need a comprehensive behavioral program to manage this problem.
And they may need the help of professionals.
As the parent, you have to teach kids problem-solving skills so that they have an
alternative way of dealing with these situations and feelings. The following are steps
you can take to help your child.