Parenting a defiant or rude child can feel utterly exhausting. Many parents come to us feeling shocked and hurt that their beloved child, often a boy, can be so argumentative, oppositional, or openly disobedient. This is particularly painful when you feel you have done everything “right”, offering love, security, clear boundaries, and even material or educational advantage. Often, these parents have read the parenting books, understand the importance of firm boundaries, an
