Does Your Home Have An Attitude?

How to handle when someone's actions are not okay with you.

Cynthia Post Mitchell

Offended by being disrespected?

How do you react? When it happens at home it is really difficult. Remember you can control your response, you cannot control others' words or actions. Even when they blame you, someone's outburst is really about an underlying problem they are facing. By disregarding their insults, eventually you’ll get clarity to the situation. Deflecting from the behavior can help get to the root to of the real problem and avoid additional crisis. Replying to the "attacker" calmly asking questions, “what is going on?”, listening with the intent to understand, and asking "how can this situation improve?" will build healthy communication skills within the family.

Here’s are examples of family situations that might be relatable to you:

Toddlers Play:

Take some time to sit down and play with your toddler if he/she has begun hitting other kids. Do not make the mistake of trying to teach them a lesson by showing them "how it feels" by engaging in their behavior. This will lead to more violence behavior in the future. Teaching a child how to engage with others, such as by touching instead of hitting, or by sharing and taking turns with a toy, is crucial. It's the first step toward developing emotional intelligence and is the foundation for healthy connections with others. Role-playing and reading children's books together are great ways to reinforce good conduct in kids. Thanksgiving Special - Free download

Elementary Kids Outburst:

Even if you just want to yell back at your child when he/she comes home from school hungry, weary, and screaming/crying about everything, it's important to respond with patience and empathy. If you respond with anger, the situation will only get worse and you won't solve anything. Instead, acknowledge your child's emotions, give them a snack and explain how their body reacts to hunger, and continue the discussion about how their body reacts when they are angry and exhausted. Your child will gain a deeper understanding of his/her feelings and will learn better ways of expressing themselves. Kids YouTube video about anger

Teens Hormones:

It's crucial for you to take an empathetic and open-minded position when your teenager acts with rude/curt behavior, expressing annoyance that they don't think they're being understood. Prior to resorting to punishment or removing privileges, take the time to talk to the them openly. When listening attentively and showing concern in their problems, no matter how little the problem may appear to you, it will create a trusting bond between you both. Seeing things from your teen's perspective, will help you work together to find constructive solutions to any underlying challenges in the future. Teen Therapy

Spouse/Partner Moods:

It’s just as important In dealing with a spouse/partner who may be exhibiting negative behavior or expressing dissatisfaction for whatever reason. It’s also, important to approach their emotions with patience, empathy, and effective communication. Engaging in screaming matches or retaliatory actions will only escalate tensions and strain the relationship. Instead, set a time to have a calm and open conversation, actively listening to their concerns and trying to understand their perspective. When couples make time to do this, their relationships will get stronger, they are able to solve problems that might have caused an uproar before, and they will become great leaders for the family by exhibiting empathy and how to work together to find solutions. Relationship therapy