Conner* is a 15-year-old male who constantly argued with his teachers at school and his parents, and displayed anger control issues. His parents were frustrated with his behavior and everything they tried to address his behavioral problems only added to the family conflict. Connor’s parents turned to YFS for help, and temporarily placed their son in the Youth Shelter for a “cooling off” period. While in the shelter, Conner and his family attended individual and family counseling. After a few sessions, his parents were openly discussing issues with their son and participating in the counseling sessions. Connor opened up as well and was able to talk to his parents about the problems that had been bothering him. Counseling continued once Connor returned home, and over time his original defiant attitude changed to a more positive outlook. His parents also became more confident in raising their teenage son. Connor is on the right track, and hopes to attend college after graduating high school.

*Names have been changed to protect confidentiality and privacy.