POWER STRUGGLES

It seems today, in my office, I have been talking to parents about power struggles with their teenagers. I learned a long time ago to never engage in a power struggle with a teenager. They are willing to fight to the death and I am usually not willing to go there. Somehow as parents we feel as if we need to argue an issue no matter what. When your teen is attempting to engage you in a power struggle it is okay to not fight back. Simply say I'm not willing to have this fight with you. It does not mean you give in only that you will not fight. The parents are (or should be) in charge. If you find yourself in this situation try this and see what happens. Expect that at first they will fight harder because when you get down and dirty with them they get the power. Don't back down. Good Luck. Sherri