Negotiating With An Upset Child . Very little learning takes place when children are emotionally distressed or upset. Negotiation or compromise is not helpful when children act upset to get their way. It is far more effective to wait until a child is calm and then discuss the problem. Oppositional and Defiant Role Models .
Children naturally imitate the behavior of people they are emotionally bonded with.
Oppositional and defiant behavior is reinforced and strengthened whenever it solves a problem or avoids a distressing experience. Argumentative, angry or threatening behavior on the part of parents that results in a winner and a loser can be a disastrous example for children. Children become more oppositional and defiant if they believe their parents and role models can get away with such behavior and they can t. Alcohol or Other Drug Use . Make no mistake about it, alcohol and other drug use can have an incredibly powerful impact on your thoughts and mood. Alcohol and other drugs can dramatically change your behavior and you will not notice or appreciate the long term emotional impact on your child.