What is authority? Merriam-Webster.com defines authority as the power to influence or command thought, opinion, or behavior; persons in command. Dictionary.com defines authority as the power to determine, adjudicate, or otherwise settle issues or disputes; jurisdiction; the right to control, command, or determine. 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.…

Has your son been involved with the juvenile justice system? Has he been in trouble with the law for a minor under the influence, D.U.I., marijuana possession, truancy, theft, burglary, vandalism or other crime? Teens sometimes succumb to peer pressure and break the law in an effort to “fit in.” Teens that commit crimes often are sending a message they need help. Ignoring underlying issues may lead to increased criminal behavior. Most…

What is Bullying? According to the American Psychological Association, Bullying is a form of aggressive behavior in which someone intentionally and repeatedly causes another person injury or discomfort. Bullying can take the form of physical contact, words or more subtle actions. The bullied individual typically has trouble defending him or herself and does nothing to “cause” the bullying. What is Aggression? Merriam-Webster defines aggression as injurious and hostile behavior; the…

Has your son run away or threatened to run away? You are not alone. According to the National Runaway Safeline (formerly known at the National Runaway Switchboard) one in seven kids between the ages of 10 and 18 will run away at some point. Statistics show between 1.6 and 2.8 million youth run away in a year. What is the definition of a runaway? The Office of Juvenile Justice and…

What is Impulsive Behavior? Impulsive Behavior is described as a pattern of behavior where there is a strong desire to act quickly without thinking about consequences. Risky actions and other problems are associated with this behavior pattern. Symptoms Acting without thinking Difficulty listening Difficulty finishing tasks Frequently interrupts others Yelling at others Hitting others when angry   The American Psychiatric Association, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders DSM-IV-TR list…