Defining Growth

Defining Growth, MA, BCBA, understands the profound impact that major life changes can have on families and their children. He recognizes that a child's ability to regulate and manage their emotions is intricately linked to their capacity to cope with stress. When adolescents face overwhelming stress, they often struggle with problem-solving and can exhibit challenging or confusing behaviors. These can include losing interest in activities they once enjoyed, becoming verbally defiant, neglecting academic or personal responsibilities, and experiencing conflict with peers. Defining believes that every behavior serves a purpose, and deciphering the reasons behind these challenging actions can be complex. Relying solely on punishment is rarely effective for fostering healthy change in teenagers. Instead, he emphasizes the need for strategies that help teens cope with stress and redirect their behaviors towards their aspirations. Understanding that adolescents cannot navigate these challenges alone, Defining collaborates with both teens and their parents, aiming to uncover the underlying functions behind difficult behaviors. He facilitates individual sessions with teens and conducts parent check-ins to ensure a cohesive support system for families as they work towards achieving their goals. Together, they set small, attainable objectives that contribute to fostering a thriving family environment.