ABSTRACT
Just as internal behaviors deal with those behaviors that are turned inward, external behaviors refer to acting-out behaviors, including most forms of aggression (verbal and physical outbursts), tantrums, and rage. This dialogue works only to shame the child, instead of seeking answers regarding the frustration. The parent is very frustrated and that feeling has blocked any ability to redirect the conversation into a problem-solving dialogue. Here the parent validates the feelings, provides an alternate explanation for what she may be experiencing, and recalls past conversations on the topic, in hopes of leading the child to the discover the tools in her emotional toolbox appropriate to deal with the problem. More and more, children are confronted with all sorts of situations and risky behaviors drugs, alcohol, and self-injurious behaviors. This is reminding the child of the previous conversations the family has had regarding risky behaviors and reminding the child about the expectations.
