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Coney · March 21st, 2005, 09:17

Hi, Marshall. I don't yet have a 16 year old child, but I was 16 once. In retrospect, I think what kept me from behaving like your brother was the presence of clear boundaries set forth by my parents. There were swift and distinct consequences for breaking those boundaries. Here's the key: Kids need to be scared of the consequences. Every kid is different, so some kids require heavier punishment than others. Nonetheless, kids needs to fear them, because that's what keeps them from getting into trouble. It sounds like the consequences for your brother were never in place, or they weren't really scary; therefore, he's doing whatever he wants because doesn't really have anything to lose. He's running the show and driving your family crazy in the process.

At this stage, however, your younger brother probably needs a VERY structured environment with NO bending on the rules. He needs strict boundaries, and he needs to scared of the consequences. The best people in the world to supply this would be your parents. If they are unable, then military school or something similar may be the remedy. So, I agree with MQAAord in that regard.

Good luck, man!!

March 21st, 2005, 09:17	#4
Coney Junior Member Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: 3T5 Posts: 256	Re: Need some serious advice... Hi, Marshall. I don't yet have a 16 year old child, but I was 16 once. In retrospect, I think what kept me from behaving like your brother was the presence of clear boundaries set forth by my parents. There were swift and distinct consequences for breaking those boundaries. Here's the key: Kids need to be scared of the consequences. Every kid is different, so some kids require heavier punishment than others. Nonetheless, kids needs to fear them, because that's what keeps them from getting into trouble. It sounds like the consequences for your brother were never in place, or they weren't really scary; therefore, he's doing whatever he wants because doesn't really have anything to lose. He's running the show and driving your family crazy in the process. At this stage, however, your younger brother probably needs a VERY structured environment with NO bending on the rules. He needs strict boundaries, and he needs to scared of the consequences. The best people in the world to supply this would be your parents. If they are unable, then military school or something similar may be the remedy. So, I agree with MQAAord in that regard. Good luck, man!!