While it is ideal that both parents attend the sessions, it is often not possible. It is important to remember that, no matter what the relationship status of the child’s parents, both mothers and fathers individually have been shown to make a difference to their child’s behaviour. So do not be disheartened about the idea if you are a single parent. Perhaps you could bring a friend who is also experiencing a behavioural problem at home.
Parent meating works and is managed in different ways depending upon what problems are faced in the home. There are three main sections.
Dealing with behaviour
Dealing with eating disorders.
Dealing with autism.
Behavioural problems
Parent training / parent therapyTraining for parents whose child has a behavioural problem is a relatively short-term, focussed therapy (less than one year) that works solely on parents. It is not recommended that children attend the sessions.
About their child’s condition: It is very important that parents understand what their child’s behavioural disorder actually is, what the major symptoms are, and what the child may be feeling.
What to expect from their child: Expectations of a child’s development need to be realistic, otherwise the child will feel threatened and may take a “backwards step” in their learning and behaviour. This may lead to disappointment on the parents’ behalf, which will impact on the self-esteem of the child.
How to give commands appropriately, both verbally and non-verbally: A firm voice with an appropriate volume and constant eye contact are very important when giving commands.
The importance of praise- Just as important as knowing how to deal with disobedient behaviour is to know how to positively reinforce good behaviour. In order for parents to establish a good relationship with their child, is it imperative that they constantly praise good behaviour and encourage children to engage in activities which they enjoy and are good at. Rewards and incentives are also successful tools for encouraging good behaviour.
How to reprimand appropriately- When a child first acts out, they should be told straight away not to continue that behaviour. This reprimand needs to be firm and serious, but yelling and shouting should not be necessary. If parents yell and shout, their children will too.
When to give warnings and when to take action: Children need to know when they are doing something inappropriate. Therefore it is quite acceptable for parents to give their child a warning. However, one warning is enough. If there are too many warnings given, they will lose meaning.
These skills are revised continuously through the sessions. Parents are involved in role-playing with the psychologist and are required to continuously practise these skills at home.
Eating disorders-
parants training for eating disorders is focussed around the following.
Parental role modelling: Children are most likely to eat healthier when parents are eating healthy.
Establishing good eating and exercising habits: This is the primary focus for younger children with obesity or over-eating, as it is
easiest to change habits when children are very young.
Encouragement and praise for good eating and exercising: This is imperative in order to change habits, especially for children over the age of eight. Improving child self-esteem is essential in order to change their dietary patterns. If they believe they can do it, they will. This is largely influenced by parent attitude.
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