Breakups & Divorce Support Group

Just broke up with someone or in the midst of a difficult divorce? Breaking up is difficult no matter what the circumstances are. They say that time heals all wounds, but sometimes a listening ear or a hug can work wonders for the heart. Whether you need a place to vent, someone to hold you to No Contact, or need advice about what to do, we're here to help.

13,010 Members
100,360 Posts
2 Online
Relationships & Sexuality
/ Breakups & Divorce Support Group

Messing up the kids

Rman
Rman
My wife and I used to fight, big time. By big time, I mean really bad. Yelling, cussing...real bad stuff. Well, my 6 year old daughter has become defiant and nothing we do can stop her from behaving this way. She is fine outside of the house and at school, but with her mother, sister and myself, she is out of control. She laughs at discipline, hits her sister and her mother, cusses and seems to get worse when we try to discipline her behavior. Has anyone experienced similar behavior from their children? The guilt is seriously consuming me right now. I don't even give a shit about what has happened with my marriage...I just worry about my daughter.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Oh yes, my son is 9 and has the same behaviors. Still has temper tantrums. My counselor recommended a book called 1-2-3 Magic--GET IT. It is concise and easy to read. I've implemented a lot of the strategies and while it might not be perfect my kids have gotten better. Just remember--you HAVE to be consistent. It's easy to want to give up when you are tired and frustrated, especially as a single parent.

I've also found that when I admit to making mistakes my kids seem to have more respect. The last 4 days I have been totally stressed out getting them ready for school and looking for a job, and it showed in my interaction with them. I was yelling a lot and just plain miserable. I sat down with them last night and apologized and said that while I may have handled some situations badly I still expect them to behave. It was a really good interaction with my kids.