I have attached a link to an article written by Dr. Alan Kazdin of the Yale University Parenting Center and Child Conduct Clinic on handling your defiant child.
This article provides parents with 10 great techniques they can start using now. One of the overall themes of the article is the importance of praise and remaining positive with your child’s behavior.
In my work with children and families, I recommend parents to remain as positive as they can with their children. Dr. Kazdin recommends praising your child 90 percent of the time. This can be so difficult as a parent with a defiant child, as many of their behaviors can be overwhelming, difficult to manage and often lead you (the parents) feeling frustrated and negative.
Here is the link to Dr. Kazdin's article from the website of ABC News:
http://abcnews.go.com/Primetime/10-tips-parents-defiant%20children/story?id=8549664#.T_40wM016ea
Check out www.stokescounseling.com to learn more about helping you and your child manage his/her defiant behavior.