ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how to deal with “stuck” behaviours or problems that have persisted for some time or behaviours that are dangerous for the child or for others. The most important thing to remember in managing children’s difficult behaviour is to make sure that they get at least four times more attention for positive behaviour than they do for problem behaviour. The chapter describes some ways to manage problem behaviour that enable parents to plan in advance, let children know what the rules are, ensure that the opposite behaviour is being praised and rewarded and remain calm when dealing with problems. A foster child argued with other children about what programme to watch on television. Many children are experts at engaging in debate about whether or not to do something. They generally find that discussion or argument is a very effective way of avoiding following instructions and getting their own way.
