Viewing Your Child’s Functioning from a New Parenting Perspective
The beginning of the new school term is an opportunity to evaluate how your child is functioning in the important arenas of their life. When a child is demonstrating problems at home or school, or not reaching their potential in school or activities, the solutions are typically not clear or simple.
A child’s functioning is the product of many contributing factors. At any given time, a child’s experience and behavior is affected by family composition and functioning, adjustment to life changes, genetics, physiology, and past experiences. Many times, it is the parents’ perspective and belief system that is the most influential force on the child’s behavior. Every child has a phenomenal ability to adapt and overcome adversity and stress. A parent can unknowingly impede their child’s psychological development and growth. Taking an objective look at the ways we affect our children is not always easy or comfortable. Our concern and love for our children make it uncomfortable to consider how we could be supporting our children better.
Managing a child’s behavior can be overwhelming and emotionally draining. This experience can lead to decisions that are drastic. Medication is an important way to address behavior and emotions, but they are never the only option. When an emotional or behavioral difficulty is addressed through changes in individual or family functioning, the result is positive development and adaptation. This is an approach that targets the problem by encouraging emotional growth, rather than by addressing symptoms. Medication need to be considered as a piece of the larger treatment picture.
Many times, the best way to address such a problem is not clear. There are many options to consider, including individual therapy for the child or parent, family therapy, and parental consultation. Talking about new perspectives and solutions is a great way to empower yourself as a parent. Sam Dwyer offers a brief consultation free of charge. Call (303) 470 1995 to schedule your consultation.