AboutDan Expertise I was once an expert on Askme.com, yet because askme is going out, I feel I can help people here. I am an expert in many areas of life, so why not try to be an expert here. State your ages with questions. I do not give medical advice online
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Expert: Dan Date: 11/16/2007 Subject: Freshman son and failing grades.
Question Hi Dan, I would appreciate any help or input on my issue because I am at my wits end with my son. He 14 years old and a freshman in high school. He has been through alot in his life mainly due to his father and my (his mom of course) long drawn out divorce. I know bad slacking grades at this time are normal. His father and I divorced when he was in 7th grade.His dad has always been in his life during the hard times for visitation and his usual everyother weekend visitation. I have full custody of him. Just recently his dad has stopped picking him up or talking to him. I know this is a terrible hard frustrating time for my son. He is going to counciling and seems fine( The councilors have said he is doing very good and it is getting easier on him).He has realized that his dad behavior is not his fault. Anyway,, long story short, My sons is doing very poorly in School. He acts like he doesnt care, he lies to me about his homework.In the past I have had some issues with his grades and with grounding and taking away priviledges he will bounce back and usually is a very good person. I am having troubles with the best punishment at this time. He hates me to say I am dissapointed in him and I think gets to the point with him what I expect from him.How do you punish a 14 year old that doesnt care about anything? I am trying to install in his head how important high school is and his Grades if he wants to go to college. All his teachers say he just acts like he doesnt care. He is a very smart brilliant straight A student if he wants. Can you give me any help on what to say or tell him about the importance of High School? I feel like he has given up.
Answer Vicki I recommend James Windell Parenting Teen expert for cases like this. He is well one of my best coworkers. If you also want my advice I am here, yet I need to ask for more information.
Can you tell me his hobbies? Was a move in play? When did this start? Drugs(hopefully not, yet need to ask)? New friends?
Why did the divorce happen? Family psychologist called in or just a plan psychologist? What happened with him and his father? Any those questions if you feel right answering.
Favorite actor or actress? I have to ask. We can maybe use this to help him succeed in school.
