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Are you frustrated that your child is a distraction at school? Do you feel wrongly disrespected by your kid’s when you aren’t at your best, but don’t know how to respond? Dr. Kevin Leman answers these questions with his usual wit and wisdom.

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Question #1: 7 year old son is a distraction in school. (audio)

Dr. Leman’s Answer:

He is a boy. Boys can be this way.
Remember, there are two environments we are talking about here, home and school. Do his behaviors match up between the two?

Here are some tips:
1. Tell him you are disappointed with him that he behaves this way at school.
2. The teacher may be a weak leader. In this case, there is not much you can do.
3. If he is this way at home, test for ADD at a medical doctor.

Sick Mom gets back talk from the kids

Question #2: Jamie. I have an illness that keeps me in bed often and my two teen sons talk back to me. (audio)

Dr. Leman’s Answer:

These boys are unhappy that you are sick, and they are snarky as a way to deny your illness. Underriding forces will push kids to inappropriate behavior. You can use “psychological disclosure” to address their fears. This means that you ask questions about their fears.
Start with, “I may be out in left field, but…”
Ask about their fears of losing mom.
Ask about fears of having to move to live with another family member.
This will open a conversation.

But, DO NOT:
Cooperate with their fighting (fighting is an act of cooperation).
Be afraid to say, “I am unhappy with the way you treat me.”
Do battle.

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Announcement

If you have a question for Dr. Leman that you want answered on an up coming podcat, please leave us a voicemail for. We reserve the right to use your question on the podcast. (This is NOT a private voicemail for personal counseling.)