Quick Links: All Discipline and Teens Resources | Quiz: Do You Use Fair and Firm Discipline?

Fair and firm discipline isn't a catch phrase type of discipline. It is simply you, the parent, creating a discipline plan for your children that is fair to both of you and sticking to it using a firm and loving approach. Here are three reasons why you should:

Fair and firm discipline teaches respect for adults and those in authority. Teens who do not have any, little or the wrong type of discipline in the home often are those who get into trouble at school and/or with the law.

Fair and firm discipline allows your teen to feel safe. When you set clear expectations and limits you are showing your teen the safe route through the maze of dos and don'ts in their daily lives. You are giving them a map to follow where they get to make choices for themselves. This is a very safe feeling and helps with building confidence. Older teens will eventually learn how to set their own expectations and limits when you follow this type of discipline.

Fair and firm discipline allows your teen to take responsibility for their actions. When your teen understands the rules and the consequences and knows that they are expected to follow the rules then they are ready and often willing to take consequences – whether they are positive or negative. This means you will have to remember to praise your teen's good behavior as well as stand by the consequences you have set for poor behavior.

Parenting Quizzes for Parents of Teens

• Quiz: Are you raising a healthy teen?
  
• Quiz: Is your teen safe online?
  
• Quiz: Do you have a case of parental burnout?
  
• Quiz: Is your teen over-scheduled?
  
• Quiz: Are you raising a mean girl?
  
• How Well Do You Really Know Your Teen?
  
• Screening Quiz: Is Your Teen Lying?
  

Quick Links: All Discipline and Teens Resources | Quiz: Do You Use Fair and Firm Discipline?

Take this article one step further:

See how this advice can help you improve your communication skills in this parenting class: Learn to Communicate Effectively with Your Teen in 5 Days.