It’s when a child responds to authority, usually a parent, in a rude, defiant, or disrespectful way.

Now, back talk isn’t always about rebellion. 

It often comes from frustration, a need for control, or emotional overwhelm. 

And while it’s frustrating, it’s important to understand that it’s developmentally normal. 

Kids, especially early teens and teens, are learning to assert themselves. 

But just because it’s a normal developmental stage, doesn’t mean it’s okay. 

And when we feel disrespected or angry, we often speak disrespectfully to them as we tell them – or yell at them – about how disrespectful they’re being to us.

So, rather than focusing on their action – we need to focus on our action – that comes from what we think our role as parents should be.

We need to be teachers. Our job as parents is to teach our children to speak with respect.

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