Everyone experiences anger – it is a natural outlet for charged emotions. It is when the anger becomes so uncontrollable that it develops into a rage that the parent notices aggressive behavior and violent acts. Parents may need outside support to identify the issues behind the anger.
What can I do?
- TALK to your child at home or go to a counselor.
- Praise POSITIVE behaviors. Serve as a ROLE MODEL for your child.
- Rule out that the behavior has not been caused by medications or illegal drug and/or alcohol use.
- Help your teen identify HOW to deal with their anger.
- Provide physical ACTIVITIES to release the energy created by anger.
- Use HUMOR to ease tension.
- SET clear limits and ENFORCE these limits.
- During a violent episode, isolate the teen from other family members to ensure the safety of others and don’t back them into a corner.
- Ensure that your teen does not have any weapons.
- Contact local law enforcement if your teen is a danger to self or others in the home.
NEED IMMEDIATE HELP?
Contact local police department to assess your teen for referral to the local runaway shelter or crisis unit. Your local runaway shelter is available to provide counseling to your family to address the issues. Make an appointment for yourself even if your teen refuses to go with you. In severe cases, consult with local law enforcement about pressing charges against your teen for assault or property damages.
- 24 Hour Toll Free Numbers: 1-800-RUNAWAY (1-800-786-2929) 1-800-352-5683