I am having quite a hard time with D. She's just so defiant with me. No matter what I request, she's got to have an attitude about it. She's only 7 for goodness sake! She's fine around H though. He saw her yesterday since he can't make it Thursday and was completely fine while he hung out for a few minutes after bringing her home (we were only outside). As soon as he left, she's slamming doors, back talking, etc. Has anyone else dealt with this? How do I change it around? I don't believe in spanking a child at all. I did it the other day though and it only made both of us feel worse. So I'm not doing that again. Is she like this only because of H being gone so long? Does she need closure? Is this too confusing for her? I don't know and any advice would be appreciated.
She's like this because there are no consequences. You feel guilty for this sitch and you're letting her walk over you. Spanking isn't necessary but neither is putting up with disrespect. Get a handle on it now or regret it 100 times over later. Counseling alone isn't going to fix this issue although it can help her deal better with your situation. You will have to do the rest, Dar. It's called guidance and discipline. Do not cave in to her. That's what's wrong with most kids today. The parents have no backbone.
