Barkley, research professor of psychiatry at SUNY–Syracuse Medical University and author (with Benton) of Your Defiant Child, and Robin (director of psychology training at Children’s Hospital of Michigan) share between them 60 years of clinical and research experience studying the defiant behavior of children and adolescents.

The first part of their comprehensive defiance-busting system helps parents define and assess the problem. The authors provide a chart to help readers gauge their child’s behavior, then outline four factors that contribute to defiance: the teen’s and parents’ characteristics (which are unchanging), stress (which can be alleviated somewhat) and parenting style (which can be substantially modified).

Part Two delves into the principles for reversing or preventing defiance, with sections on one-on-one time (including how to accomplish this with an uninterested teen), managing behavior and choosing appropriate punishments and rewards, to name a few.

Without placing blame, the authors reveal that parents often unwittingly make a bad situation worse; the text gives solid tips on how to work toward a positive outcome and offers a variety of scenarios, demonstrating precisely how a parent’s words and actions can be the source of a teen’s compliant or defiant response.

In the end, the authors offer a useful and detailed approach that respects the rights and expectations of parents and teens. (Feb.) Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Other Reviews
“The very best book of its kind for parents dealing with behaviorally difficult teens. Valuable real-life examples illuminate not just what defiance looks like, but why it happens, and how to bring about change while strengthening family relationships. This will be the first book I recommend to the families I work with.”–Sam Goldstein, PhD, Department of Psychology, George Mason University

“Drs. Barkley and Robin have hit gold–this book is a real treasure! The book provides very practical strategies for managing teenagers’ behavior and enhancing family relationships. It is written specifically for parents, but professionals and students also will find it a ‘must read.’ The authors should be congratulated for this brilliant work that will be of value to so many families in the years to come.”–Ronald T. Brown, PhD, Dean, Temple University College of Health Professions; Editor, Journal of Pediatric Psychology

“Drs. Barkley and Robin have blended their talents and years of clinical experience in putting together this ‘must-read’ book for all parents struggling with a teenager’s vexing, challenging, and frustrating behavior. The book delivers tried-and-true techniques for resolving conflict in parent-teen relationships, together with wonderful practical tips and FAQs.”–Gerald J. August, PhD, Department of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota Medical School

“This practical book shows how real change starts with you, the parent, and provides empowering tools and step-by-step guidance for making a positive difference in teen behavior. It is an excellent resource that will help you become a stronger positive influence in your teen’s life.”–Sharon K. Weiss, MEd, coauthor of From Chaos to Calm and Angry Children, Worried Parents

“As my son enters his adolescent years, I am thrilled to have this book! It is an easy read with many practical, commonsense ideas to try. The checklists and step-by-step approaches are very inviting. With all the pages to personalize our specific problem areas, it felt as though this book were truly written for my family. I am thrilled to be able to implement positive practices instead of always dwelling on the negative. I have already told many fellow parents and teachers about this book.”–Lisa Boyadjian, elementary school teacher and parent of a 12-year-old

“Another essential work from Drs. Barkley and Robin. With most books in this area focused on children, there is a great need for practical, evidence-based information related to adolescents and their conflicts with family members. A ‘must read’ for parents, clinicians, and all those interested in the often-trying area of teen/n-/family interactions.”–Stephen P. Hinshaw, PhD, Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley