Proactive VS Reactive Parenting

Psychologically Speaking by Dr. Lynn Margolies

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About This Column

This column is about common issues and struggles in families and demonstrates how they are resolved in family based therapy.

The column, based on real life events in families, tells both sides of the story - from the teenager’s, as well as the parent’s perspective. The stories are followed by Dr. Margolies’ analysis from a psychological perspective that integrates both points of view. She offers practical guidance to the family that helps the reader understand relatable situations in a new and more productive way, and learn what to do to improve the quality of family life.

Being a Grownup When Your Kid Hates You

This column tells a story based on a composite of real-life situations in therapy, depicting both the teen and parent’s viewpoints in divorce when the parent child relationship is affected by anger and guilt. The stories are followed by the therapist’s psychological analysis and guidance.

Bonding With Your Teen: A Hidden Opportunity

This column tells a story based on a composite of real-life situations in families, depicting both the teenager’s and parent’s perspective, followed by the therapist’s psychological analysis and guidance.

Reactive Parenting with Teens – A Common Cause of Broken Connections

This column tells a story based on a composite of real-life situations in families, depicting both the teenager’s and parent’s perspective.

The Hidden Dynamics of Defiance and How to Disarm It

How to avoid psychological traps with people who repeat the same solvable issue.

What to Say About Drinking: How to Tell if Your Teen Needs Limits

This column depicts the challenges parents face when trying to protect their teen. The story is told from the separate viewpoints of Dylan, 17, and his parents in a situation involving unproductive conversations about drinking. The story is followed by the therapist’s psychological analysis and guidance to the family.