Formidable Family Men with Greg Denning
#309 'Bad' Behavior is a Symptom of THIS - Fixing the Parent/Child Connection Fixes the Behavior
Are you struggling with constant meltdowns, defiance, or disconnection from your child—whether they’re 3 or 23?
Here’s the truth: “bad” behavior is almost never the real issue. It’s a signal—a symptom of something deeper going on beneath the surface… usually a broken or weakened emotional connection.
In this episode, we dive into the root cause of most behavioral challenges—and it’s not what most parents think. Whether you’re dealing with a sassy teen, a withdrawn preteen, or a tantrum-prone toddler, the answer isn’t more discipline. It’s more connection.
We unpack what emotional disconnection looks like in everyday parenting—and how to rebuild the bond in ways that transform your child’s behavior from the inside out.
You’ll learn practical ways to:
Rebuild emotional safety, even after years of strain
Avoid the common parenting habits that sabotage connection
Create small, intentional moments that build trust and attachment
Recognize when your child is asking for love—through misbehavior
The tools we share can help you reconnect with your child at any age and create a family culture where trust, closeness, and cooperation naturally flourish.
💥 Want to go deeper? Learn how to become a better parent from the inside out with our new Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method. 👉 Join here as a Founding Member https://extraordinaryfl.samcart.com/products/extraordinary-parent-mentoring-method-founding-member
Behavior is communication—and connection is the cure.
Key Takeaways:
Family work is the most important work.
Good parenting comes down to good connections with your children.
There is a direct connection between early attachment and later behavior.
Neuroplasticity allows us to change and recreate our relationships.
Presence and emotional attunement are critical in parenting.
Engaging in activities together strengthens bonds with children.
Physical affection is essential for emotional health.
Co-regulation is necessary before correction in parenting.
Building strong relationships prevents behavioral issues in children.
Investing in relationships leads to a happier family life
Chapters
00:00 Reflections on Family Legacy and Connection
02:20 The Importance of Family Work
04:16 Understanding Attachment in Parenting
07:31 Neuroplasticity and Rebuilding Connections
09:20 Creating Bonds with Children
12:14 Long-Term Parenting Strategies
14:10 The Role of Dads in Parenting
17:21 Identifying Attachment Disorders
20:18 Strategies for Rebuilding Connections
23:26 The Power of Presence in Parenting
28:34 Engaging with Children Effectively
30:26 Practical Tips for Connection
33:12 The Importance of Physical Affection
40:07 The Importance of Touch and Co-Regulation
43:30 Emotionally Attuned Parenting
48:07 Navigating the Balance of Support and Independence
54:32 Rebuilding Attachment and Connection
59:21 Engaging in Shared Activities for Bonding
01:08:51 The Role of Parents as Emotional Anchors
01:16:00 Creating a Life of Connection and Fulfillment
🔔 Don’t miss more parenting insights—subscribe now: https://yt.openinapp.co/GDYT
www.FormidableFamilyMan.com
RESOURCES:
Here’s a FREE Course! https://www.extraordinaryfamilylife.com/courses/adventuring
Greg's FREE Recommended Reading List for Parents & Youth: https://courses.extraordinaryfamilylife.com/courses/greg-denning-booklist
FREE Must Read Books for Resourcefulness and Preparation: https://courses.extraordinaryfamilylife.com/products/digital_downloads/preparedness-booklist
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greg.denning/
The Formidable Family Man Podcast: https://www.podpage.com/formidable-family-man/
Join Greg’s 7-Day Challenge: https://extraordinaryfl.samcart.com/products/be-the-family-man-challenge-men
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE! https://extraordinaryfl.samcart.com/products/90-day-health--fitness-challenge/
Join the Be The Formidable Family Man Masterclass and Tribe: https://formidablefamilyman.com
Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greghdenning
Learn more about the upcoming 'Asset Training' in Portugal: https://extraordinaryfl.samcart.com/products/portugal-asset-training/
Gather with us at the World School Family (Beach & Farm) Resort in Portugal: https://www.instagram.com/worldschoolfamilyresort/
Extraordinary Family Life Website: https://courses.extraordinaryfamilylife.com/
The topics discussed in our episodes are intended for educational and entertainment purposes only. They should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for any medical concerns or questions.
#FormidableFamilyMen #GregDenning #BeTheMan #ReachUpward #familyman #Fathers #parentingteens #parentchildbond #emotionalconnection #rebuildtrust #attachmentparenting #familyconnection #intentionalparenting #emotionallyhealthykids #extraordinaryfamilylife
