How to Get Your Son to Respect You More
- 1). Display respect toward other people. The first way you can get your son to behave respectfully toward you is by acting that way yourself, as children tend to copy their parents. When you are around your son, or even when he's not watching, make a point to treat people with genuine respect, politeness and consideration. Engage in respectful behaviors such as not interrupting people when they talk, waiting your turn, opening doors for strangers in public and saying "thank you" when someone does something for you.
- 2). Act with honesty. Honesty and truth sometimes can be hard to express, but it is important to do so if you want to gain your son's full respect. Gain the admiration of your son by having the courage to acknowledge when something is your fault or when you have made a major mistake. Have the self-confidence and maturity to admit you are not perfect. If you promised your son you would take him to the zoo on the weekend, but you forget, be honest with him. Apologize, explain what was cluttering your brain and move on from the situation.
- 3). Keep your word. If you wish for your son to take you seriously and respect you, always mean what you say. If your son does something wrong and you neglect to go through with your discipline, he may think that he can get away with doing anything. If you tell your son that because he forgot to do his homework he cannot go outside to play, be firm and mean it.
- 4). Discuss self-respect. Promoting self-respect in your son will encourage him to show you respect, as well. Teach your son the value of his self-worth and confidence. Point out the skills he has, whether they include mathematics or soccer. Help him improve in pursuits he doesn't do as well by motivating him and showing patience. Talk to him about establishing goals that are challenging yet within his reach at the same time.
- 5). Communicate with your son. If your son continually behaves disrespectfully toward you, take some time out to talk to him one-on-one. Let him know if it makes you feel unappreciated and hurt when he acts that way. Ask him what may be causing him to show disrespect and what you can do about it. As your son answers your questions, listen to him calmly and rationally without interrupting or judging. Try to decipher the emotions that lurk underneath his words as well.
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