Parenting: Heard of PAS?

Familiar with the term Parent Alienation Syndrome (PAS)? It’s not a disorder, it is a behavior that I see far too often in my practice.  If you’re a parent take a minute to read this (for the well being of the kids)!

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Most Common Types of “Absent Dad”

Do you know a dad who is physically present, but absent?  Dad doesn’t have to live apart from his son to be absent. Many families may appear to be “intact” with dad acting as the head of household when in fact, his mind and his energy are somewhere else.

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Parenting Boys? This is Must Read!

This is an extremely crucial time for our adolescent boys.  Let me repeat, “our boys are in trouble!” As parents, it’s time to be very careful and diligent; refuse to allow your sons to be labeled.

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Parent(s)-Is Your Family “Shame Based?”

When I begin working with a family; usually regarding their son, during an initial assessment I can discern quickly if it’s a “shame based” family.  Shame based families are about controlling behavior to conform (i.e. shame more to get behavior we want). Whether intentional or unintentional it’s fundamental that we clean that up first. Here’s why….

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Parenting Tip: Discipline vs Punishment

What’s the difference in discipline and punishment you ask?  There’s a big difference, in fact a huge difference between them. Let me explain. Punishment Your son has broken the rules; he’s been caught drinking or smoking, maybe a bad report card.  You must do “something,” he needs to be punished. The way to stop a child from misbehaving…

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The Special Bond of Father and Son

Father and son share an incredibly special bond, it happens naturally!  Be careful not to miss the especially important role you play in your son’s life. Father and Son Over the years working with adolescent boys in The Quest Project® I am constantly reminded of the important role dad plays in the healthy development of…

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Feelings: Mad, Sad, Glad and Afraid

These are the “BIG FOUR” feelings!  Regardless of age or gender, these basic four emotions – mad, sad, glad, and afraid – are appropriate for you.  Feeling, expressing and processing your feelings is healthy and highly recommended! Here’s why. Feeling Mad Feeling “mad” or angry about something?  Oh no!  This feeling scares everyone.  I’m amazed…

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Single Parent Mom Raising Son(s)

These days many single parent Moms are doing the best they can raising their adolescent son(s).  They don’t need me telling them how hard it is, but they do need help understanding what a boy goes through as he transitions to a man.  This is especially true when dad is physically or emotionally absent.

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Parenting Amid Crisis

In the midst of a crisis, your first response may be to seek counseling; due to the unusual circumstances we’re social distancing and staying at home.  I’ve talked to parents grateful for the time with their kids and parents that are ready to pull their hair out! Not every family who experiences crisis needs counseling. …

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#1 Parenting Tip: Be an Effective Team!

Did you see the movie “Oblivion?”  It came out in 2013 and starred Tom Cruise.  “Jack” and his partner were tasked with “post-apocalyptic” missions; everyday they were asked to answer this question from headquarters “are you still an effective team?” Teamwork Makes the Dream Work! When I counsel couples one of the exercises we go…

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