Is That Me Yelling?

March 1, 2014

Find an adult yelling, and you'll probably find a kid within spitting distance. Being a yeller is hardly a badge of honor, but all parents find themselves doing it. Parenting radio show regular (founder & former host, "Childhood Matters"), nurse Renner here offers parents a guide to curbing this default habit by examining why parents raise their voices, how temperament affects parenting styles, what to do instead of raising one's voice, and understanding triggers. Most yelling, she argues, is "not about teaching; it's about stopping behavior by intimidation or fear, and it's about expressing your negative feelings." VERDICT Renner includes exercises, personal reflections, narratives from other parents, and checklists for self-rumination. The book has a bit of a workshop feel to it, but those committed will find direction for keeping their cool when screaming seems like the only option.

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