185: How Should My Son Deal with Trash-Talking Friends?

Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Parenting

Is your middle schooler caught in the whirlwind of trash-talking and competitive behavior? You’re not alone. A parent writes asking for guidance on how to handle the social dynamics that boys often face in middle school, where establishing social power can involve trash-talking and intense competition. But what happens when your child feels uncomfortable with these behaviors? Dr. Lisa offers expert advice on how parents can be sensitive to their kids’ feelings, offer empathy, and start meaningful conversations that help them navigate these tricky situations. Reena & Dr. Lisa discuss practical strategies to guide your child through this challenging phase.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! How do you manage competitive behavior and social dynamics in middle school?

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Ask Lisa is produced by: https://www.goodtroubleproductions.com

Keywords: boys, middle school, trash-talking, competitive behavior, social power, sensitive, parenting

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