Dealing with Rebellion in the Family

Dealing with Rebellion in the Family: Rebellion in the family can refer to defiant behaviour and a disregard for rules. This is common among teenagers, but it can also occur in the relationship between spouses. Here are some signs of rebellious behaviour:

i. Refusing to follow rules;
ii. Arguing and challenging authority;
iii.Being deliberately annoying;
iv. Blaming others for mistakes;
v. Acting spiteful or vindictive;
vi. Engaging in dangerous activities like reckless driving, binge drinking, drugs, or promiscuous sex.

Causes of Rebellion

Many people try to address this issue without making an effort to identify the causal factors. Finding a solution to a problem should start with identifying its roots. As believers, the Holy Bible is the manual for all aspects of our lives. Ephesians 5: 21- and 6:1-9 specify layers of relationships and how each should function. Children, parents, wives, husbands, servants and masters all have specific instructions on how to treat those with whom they interface regularly. If a father maltreats his son, he is simple creating rooms for rebellion against his authority. The same thing applies in the master-servant relationship.

 At the marital level, a wife who is loved by her husband in line with the Scriptural injunction in Ephesians 5:25-31 will have no trouble submitting to his authority or leadership in the home. When a man maltreats his wife, he creates a conducive environment for the spirit of confusion and malice to enter his home. Sometimes, such conduct attracts ill feelings towards him from his children. Conversely, a wife who shows disregard for her husband and his authority as head of the family encourages the children to spite their father.

 All followers of Jesus Christ must strive to live in accordance with Scriptural demands by yielding themselves to the leading of the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:14). It is only then that they can stave off rebellion in their homes and other relationship space. In addition, we recommend the following tips for situations that have evolved into full-blown rebellion.

Tips for Dealing with Rebellion

i. The parents should jointly set clear and reasonable expectations for each member of the family.
ii. They should also set boundaries in their relationship with each other and the children.
iii.They should not try to make each other or their children in their image: They should remember that God created humans with a free will for a reason.
iv. They should give each other and the children opportunity to express their feelings; God does not tolerate tyrants!
v. They should seek positive reinforcements from extended family members as occasion demands. 
vi. They should seek professional guidance if necessary.
vii.Parents should help those around them to understand that their value lies in who they are and not in what they do.
viii.They should guide their children/wards in figuring out the difference between an image and identity.
ix. Most importantly, they should seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in addressing hot button issues that could create frictions at home.