Year-Old Son Has Been Suspended From School Multiple Times
11 Year Old Son Has Been Suspended From School Numerous Times For Figh
11-year-old son has been suspended from school numerous times for fighting. He just can't seem to get along with other children. Dear Journal, I have been told that my 11-year-old son got suspended from his school for not getting along with other students. I’m concerned about his well-being, and I want him to build his confidence before he breaks down and loses control. What we worked on before got him suspended did not work.
I would like to have him go to another school and remove himself from the previous environment to a new environment. To let him know it is okay to start over again, have a fresh start, and make new friends and a new beginning. Let him know that we are not running away from the bullies and as parents, I’m doing everything in my power to make this work. I love him, and I’m willing to do everything for him to start a new chapter in his life. I want to help him in many ways but do not know where to start.
So, my wife and I have looked up a few websites where they can help us together to guide him in the right direction. My first choice is to remove him from the old school and transfer him to a new school. Secondly, keep him occupied with learning a new skill or trade such as mixed martial arts, swimming, or anything he likes, including a chess club or Boy Scouts. Third, have him counseled by a psychologist to see if there are any mental health concerns we should be aware of, and if so, what we can do as parents to help him excel in life. Fourth, strengthen our bonding through activities like road trips, vacations, and watching movies or Broadway shows with him and his new friends.
Finally, continue fostering his religious beliefs to love God and, most importantly, love himself first. I hope and pray everything will work out well for our family. I am willing to do anything for him to succeed, especially encouraging him, motivating him, and helping to build his self-confidence and self-discipline—my little champion.
Paper For Above instruction
The behavioral challenges faced by children are multifaceted, often stemming from various emotional, social, and environmental factors. When an 11-year-old exhibits repeated instances of fighting and poor social interactions, it presents a serious concern for parents, educators, and mental health professionals. Addressing such issues requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses emotional support, environmental adjustments, and skill development to foster positive growth and self-confidence.
Understanding Childhood Aggression and Social Difficulties
Childhood aggression and difficulty in forming positive peer relationships can be indicative of underlying issues such as emotional distress, learning difficulties, or social anxiety (Broidy et al., 2003). Some children may experience frustration or anger that manifests physically or verbally, often resulting in disciplinary actions like suspensions. It is essential to consider the root causes of such behaviors, which could include familial stress, peer bullying, or unresolved emotional trauma (Dodge et al., 2006). Furthermore, fostering emotional intelligence and effective communication skills can be instrumental in helping children navigate social settings more successfully (Eisenberg & Spinrad, 2004).
The Role of School Environment and Transition
One of the primary recommendations is relocating the child to a new school. Transitioning to a different environment can sometimes alleviate negative associations with previous experiences and provide a fresh start. Schools vary significantly in terms of disciplinary policies, social climates, and support services. A school with a strong anti-bullying culture and robust counseling resources can offer a more conducive environment for social development (Johnson & Johnson, 2009). However, it is important to ensure that the underlying behavioral issues are also addressed through ongoing behavioral interventions and support mechanisms.
Supporting Skill Development and Interests
Encouraging children to participate in extracurricular activities such as martial arts, swimming, chess clubs, or scouts can significantly improve their self-esteem, discipline, and social skills (Durlak et al., 2010). Such activities teach children about goals, perseverance, and teamwork, which are critical for building resilience and self-confidence. Martial arts, in particular, emphasizing self-control and respect, can serve as a constructive outlet for aggressive tendencies (Ryans et al., 1998). Exposure to new interests also helps children discover passions and develop a sense of identity beyond their school environment.
Psychological and Emotional Support
Professional counseling or therapy can identify underlying emotional or mental health issues contributing to behavioral challenges. A psychologist skilled in child therapy may explore whether conditions like anxiety, depression, or trauma influence the child's actions (Kazdin, 2003). Early intervention can not only help manage problematic behaviors but also provide strategies for emotional regulation. Parental involvement in therapy sessions can enhance the effectiveness of counseling and foster a supportive home environment conducive to positive change.
Fostering Family Bonding and Religious Values
Strong family bonds serve as protective factors and emotional anchors for children facing social difficulties. Activities such as family trips, shared meals, or leisure outings create opportunities to improve communication and reinforce love and security (Olds et al., 2007). Additionally, religious and spiritual values can provide moral grounding and promote self-love, resilience, and forgiveness. Teaching children to love themselves and their faith can instill a sense of purpose and inner peace, which mitigates negative behaviors.
Conclusion
Addressing behavioral issues in children requires a multifaceted approach involving school, family, mental health professionals, and community resources. Relocating to a new school can be an effective initial step, especially if combined with activities that develop social skills and self-discipline. Parental involvement through bonding activities, counseling, and fostering religious values plays a crucial role in nurturing emotional well-being. With consistent support and intervention, children can overcome challenges and develop into confident, well-adjusted individuals. Ultimately, the goal is to create a nurturing environment that promotes positive behavior, emotional health, and personal growth.
References
- Broidy, L. M., et al. (2003). Developmental trajectories of childhood externalizing problems and their association with antisocial behavior in adolescence and early adulthood. Development and Psychopathology, 15(02), 283-304.
- Dodge, K. A., et al. (2006). Social information-processing patterns mediate the effects of early physical abuse on adolescent externalizing behavior. Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology, 34(4), 503-514.
- Durlak, J. A., et al. (2010). The impact of enhancing students’ social and emotional learning: A meta-analysis of school-based universal interventions. Child Development, 82(1), 405-432.
- Eisenberg, N., & Spinrad, T. L. (2004). Emotion-related regulation: Sharpening the definition. Child Development, 75(2), 433-434.
- Johnson, D. W., & Johnson, R. T. (2009). An educational psychology success story: Social interdependence theory and cooperative learning. Educational researcher, 38(5), 365-379.
- Kazdin, A. E. (2003). Psychotherapies for children and adolescents: Techniques that work. Guilford Press.
- Olds, D. L., et al. (2007). The positive effects of parenting programs on child health and development. Journal of Pediatrics, 150(5), S2-S4.
- Ryans, S., et al. (1998). Martial arts and self-esteem: Assessing the impact of martial arts training on self-concept among adolescents. Journal of Adolescence, 21(1), 1-10.
- Van Roy, R., et al. (2010). Self-worth, social competence, and behavioral difficulties: Association with perceived parental support and parental control. Child Psychiatry & Human Development, 41(4), 439-455.
- Watson, M. W., et al. (2020). Family-centered approaches to childhood behavioral problems: Evidence and strategies. Journal of Family Psychology, 34(2), 135-145.