Many of these approaches can be supplied through parent training groups provided by schools or parent self-help groups. Parent training approaches that rely on technical jargon and complex data collection procedures are bound to fail. Good parent programs target such behaviors as noncompliance, arguing, aggression, poor school performance, and problems with social skills. These programs help parents practice the skills learned in the home setting over time and can evolve into an individualized behavior management program for their child. Several programs teach parents to give precision requests, provide effective rewards, and follow through with preplanned consequences.
Many programs help parents design behavioral contracts and set up management systems in the home.
Pointer Box 9 gives a list of commercially available parent training books and programs which offer excellent skills to parents. This list is representative, not inclusive. This list is representative, not inclusive. It often helps if the counseling starts with establishing a relationship that includes the family and then shifts to building specific skills that will help the student adjust in other settings. Counselors who also conduct a social skills group or can help with study skills may be particularly useful.