When your Teen has a Problem with Authority…

As our children grow and mature they begin to question authority. Teenagers are trying to become independent and as a result question the demands placed upon them. They do not like the limits placed on their freedom. Pushing against authority has its purpose in allowing the teen to explore their environment and see where the absolute boundaries lie. So when does this behavior become a problem? Questioning authority in itself is not bad; however, the trouble begins when a teenager becomes disrespectful with authority figures, whether it is a parent, teacher, police officer or other. Teens who continue to challenge authority often are diagnosed with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD).

When disrespectful behavior becomes a pattern and interferes with daily living it is time to seek help. Our students who come to us with this issue can find success in overcoming the negative effects of ODD as they work their program.

Triumph Youth Services offers a small, highly structured family-type environment for youth. This family-like community promotes a social environment that takes on both therapeutic and healing properties instead of maintaining negative behaviors.

Our Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) approach utilizes individual therapy combined with group and family therapy to treat each student’s issues. In addition to the therapy, the Positive Peer Culture utilized in Triumph Youth Services facilities help the youth process their issues and build skills for their own personal progress.