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Hey Dad: Needing support
By: Dwayne Ardis
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Posted by admin
Tue Nov 30, 1999 00:00:00 PST
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Hey Dad,
I ran across your advice column looking for parent support groups. I have two teenagers — one son, one daughter — and a 9-year-old son. I have had so many issues this year, mostly with my oldest son, that it would take me all night to write about— drugs and lots of behavior problems. I would love some help finding a parent support group or even some parenting classes. I really need any help I can get.
Thank you,
Feeling Hopeless
Dear Feeling Hopeless,
Don’t give up yet, there is help out there. A quick check of the AT&T Yellow Pages found four listings under counseling services. You should also try the Asgard Counseling Center and the Kern County Mental Health Services. Contact some local churches to see if they offer counseling. The Big Brothers group might be able to help as well. I also recommend the following books, “Dare to Discipline” and “Love Must Be Tough,” both by Dr. James Dobson, as well as “Making Children Mind Without Losing Yours” by Dr. Kevin Leman.
If you don’t mind, just a few helpful pointers. Set reasonable boundaries, don’t back down or let your son intimidate you. Children will always push to see where boundaries are, and if you keep changing them, they will continue to push even harder. Are there any uncles or other male figures that your son respects? If so, perhaps they can help out. I can tell you love your children very much, so please keep trying to find help.
— Dad
Do you have a question for Dad? You can reach him and read his prior columns at www.northwestvoice.com.
