Your Questions About Challenging Behavior, Answered
In this first Thriving Kids Q&A episode, Dr. Dave Anderson answers real parenting questions about kids’ behavior — what it is, how to shape it, and how to support children through challenges.
We cover:
- How to handle lying, even when kids show no remorse
- Teaching respect, kindness, and standing up for others
- Whether there’s such a thing as “good” or “bad” behavior
- What to do when boys’ behavior becomes more destructive as they grow
- How to help kids recognize areas for growth without shame
- What to do when a high-energy child is sensitive to feedback
For more on this topic, check out our full episode with Dr. Caroline Mendel: How do I promote good behavior in my children?
Resources mentioned:
- Positive Parenting, Thriving Kids video series → childmind.org/positiveparenting
- Full podcast feed → childmind.org/podcast
Creators and Guests
Host
Dave Anderson
Dave Anderson, PhD, is the Vice-President of Public Engagement and Education and a senior psychologist in the ADHD and Behavior Disorders Center at the Child Mind Institute. Dr. Anderson focuses on the expansion of our awareness-building and prevention programs while also leading initiatives that build the Child Mind Institute brand, foster strategic partnerships, and forge new relationships with policy makers and youth mental health leaders.
Producer
Andrew Dearling
Andrew Dearling is the Digital Director at the Child Mind Institute, where he leads strategy and execution across web, email, social media, and digital campaigns. He focuses on using digital tools to connect more families with mental health resources, expand the organization’s reach, and drive measurable impact. Andrew combines deep expertise in content, platforms, and performance marketing with a clear understanding of how to reach people where they are, and move them to take action.
Producer
Chad Garber
Chad Garber, a seasoned Creative Producer with over 15 years of experience, shapes branded video, digital, and experiential content for Fortune 100 companies, agencies, and in-house teams to Child Mind Institute. Known for building high-performing creative operations, he led pro-bono productions to multimillion-dollar campaigns for brands like Verizon, Microsoft, New Balance, Budweiser, and FedEx. His sharp storytelling, deep production expertise, and collaborative leadership move ideas from concept to screen with impact.
