When it comes to teaching children how to practice defiance, parents might be better off following an unconventional approach. A psychologist from the Ivy League suggests that instead of trying to stop their kids’ behavior entirely, parents should focus on understanding and validating their feelings.
According to this expert, one common mistake many parents make is assuming they know what’s best for their child when it comes to dealing with difficult emotions. Instead, they should listen attentively to their kid’s concerns, acknowledge their feelings, and help them find healthy ways to express themselves.
By doing so, parents can encourage their children to develop emotional regulation skills and learn how to navigate social situations in a more constructive way. This approach also helps build trust between parent and child, which is essential for any successful relationship.
Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/11/29/ivy-league-psychologist-how-parents-can-help-kids-practice-defiance.html