How did parents get this wrong? If you see a negative behavior in your child, you’re going to respond. The behavior changes instantaneously. But in the long run, the response doesn’t keep the behavior from happening again.
What do you suggest for a, uh, friend whose 7-year-old has a tantrum at bedtime? The key is focusing on the behavior you want rather than on the behavior you don’t. Then create situations where your child can practice that [good] behavior, even if you have to simulate or fake it.
You mean like playacting? Isn’t that kind of weird? Maybe. But good behavior needs to be practiced like a musical instrument. The more you practice, the more you get it down. It’s not rocket science.
Will it work on husbands? Bosses? Co-workers? These principles are used in business and industry all the time. It works.
