 |
Messy Family Podcast : Catholic Conversations on Marriage and FamilyAuthor: Mike and Alicia Hernon : Catholic Marriage Parent and Family
Parenting is not a clean-cut, simple process for those who like to follow the rules. Family life is messy and unpredictable, but it is the greatest adventure you will ever have. We are Mike and Alicia Hernon, parents of 10 children with a growing number of grandchildren, and we would like to invite you into some of the conversations we have had with each other about marriage, parenting, and Catholic family life. Our hope is that our conversation sparks a dialogue between you and your spouse that leads to greater unity and intentional Christian parenting in your home. Listen in to our podcast and start the conversation as we seek to lead our families to heaven. Visit us at https:///www/MessyFamilyProject.org for resources, guides, links and show notes. Language: en-us Genres: Christianity, Kids & Family, Parenting, Religion & Spirituality Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
Listen Now...
MFP 377: When Kids Take Control: What To Do and How to Stop It
Monday, 13 April, 2026
When I stopped trying to fix or change my child, and explored my own role in fostering bullying behaviors, I found the answers I needed. These behaviors were a direct consequence of my own insecurities. - Sean Grover, Ph.D. Summary Parents often make excuses for their children's outrageous behavior, whether it's a preschooler's tantrum or a teen's sullen refusal to do what he or she has been asked. Children who become unmanageable or verbally abusive to their parents are, in fact, bullies, although most parents don't think of these behaviors in that way. Maybe they should. Key Takeaways Kids aren't the problem—unchecked patterns are. When disrespect or control shows up in a child, it often points back to gaps in parental boundaries, consistency, or self-awareness. Testing limits is normal. Running the house is not. Kids are supposed to push boundaries, but they also need parents who confidently hold them. That's what makes them feel secure. Your parenting is shaped by your past. How you were raised affects how you handle conflict, discipline, and respect. If you don't examine it, you'll repeat it. Inconsistency creates escalation. When parents give in, avoid, or explode, kids learn to push harder. Over time, this can turn into manipulative or aggressive behavior. Healthy authority starts with self-control. Calm, consistent, self-aware parenting is more powerful than strict rules or harsh discipline. Kids follow who you are, not just what you say. Couple Discussion Questions Where do we struggle most with consistency or follow-through as parents? (Be specific about situations where you tend to give in, avoid, or overreact.) How did the way we were raised shape how we respond to our kids today? (Think about conflict, discipline, and handling disrespect.) Are we aligned in how we set and enforce boundaries? If not, where are we off? (And what's one practical change we can agree to make this week?) Resources https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/singletons/201509/the-3-types-of-parents-who-get-bullied-by-their-own-children
