I guess this is beating a dead horse but I continue to be appalled in my office about a society where we find yelling to be a reasonable form of discipline. I am also appalled that we find this a way to function in any relationship when we feel angry. I tell people that anger is a perfectly reasonable emotion and part of the human condition but we don't get to express it any way we feel because we are angry. Once again I also tell people that yelling at kids is like trying to steer the car by honking the horn. In my office I see teenagers every day where they talk to me about parents yelling at them. I am a firm believer in discipline this includes both structure and consequences for misbehavior to teach appropriate behavior but yelling does not fit into that framework.
Yelling at children has a negative impact on their self worth. They grow to not trust their parent. They prefer to spend time away from the family. They become yellers themselves. They do not always do as well in school. I find that at times they may develop with depression or anxiety or both. If you are a yeller I find that you can do some things to change that. If you find you are going to yell, walk away until you are calmer. Find a better way to address the issue and then talk with your child. If you cannot control this yelling please seek professional help. You children will be better for your efforts. Sherri
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