# **Managing Your Child’s Bad Attitude: Should You Ignore It?**

Parenting comes with many challenges, especially when your child expresses defiance through eye rolls or sarcastic remarks. The instinct for many parents is to correct this behavior immediately. However, parenting coach **Lisa Bunnage**, widely known for her TikTok advice (@bratbustersparenting), suggests an unexpected approach: **ignore it**.

This perspective has sparked debate among parents. Some embrace the idea, while others worry that it could encourage disrespect. So, is ignoring bad attitude the right strategy? Let’s explore this concept in-depth.

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## **Why Ignoring a Bad Attitude Can Be Effective**

Bunnage distinguishes between **general attitude** and **outright disrespect**. While swearing and name-calling demand intervention, minor frustrations—such as sighs or eye rolls—are normal parts of a child’s emotional development.

Instead of addressing every reaction, she encourages parents to focus on earning their child’s **respect through leadership**. As respect grows, negative attitudes will naturally diminish.

> *“A child’s bad attitude will naturally fade once they genuinely respect their parent,”* Bunnage explains in a TikTok video.

Her philosophy suggests that rather than controlling every reaction, parents should step into the role of a **strong but respectful leader**, which fosters long-term behavioral improvements.

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## **The Power of Leadership and Respect**

Bunnage believes effective parenting isn’t about rigid control—it’s about **setting an example**. Demonstrating confidence, patience, and **mutual respect** teaches children how to regulate emotions and interact positively with others.

Children, especially teenagers, challenge boundaries as they develop independence. Instead of demanding instant obedience, parents should concentrate on **building a healthy relationship**, allowing attitudes to improve organically.

Teaching leadership also prepares children for their future roles—as students, employees, and eventually, adults managing relationships. If they witness their parents leading with calm authority, they’re more likely to mirror that behavior.

> *“Respect goes both ways,”* says Bunnage. *“If you demand it without giving it, you won’t get the results you want.”*

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## **Parental Perspectives: Is This Approach Realistic?**

Bunnage’s advice has drawn **mixed reactions** from parents on social media.

### **Concerns from Critics**
Some parents express worry that ignoring attitudes could give children a false sense of what’s acceptable in the real world. They fear it may teach kids that they can behave the same way in school or future workplaces without consequences.

One skeptical parent commented:
> *“If you ignore bad attitude at home, how will they know it’s unacceptable elsewhere? I don’t want my kid talking back to teachers or employers.”*

### **Support from Parents Who Embrace It**
On the other hand, many parents find this approach **refreshing and practical**. They argue that constantly correcting minor frustrations is exhausting—and unnecessary. Children, like adults, have bad days and need space to express emotions without immediate reprimands.

> *“We all feel frustrated sometimes. I want my kids to know emotions are normal—just not to cross into disrespect.”*

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## **Should You Try This Parenting Approach?**

Every child is different, and no single parenting strategy fits everyone. However, Bunnage’s perspective offers a valuable **shift from control to leadership**. If a child respects their parent as a calm and fair leader, their behavior may naturally improve—without constant correction.

Instead of fighting every attitude slip, perhaps the best approach lies in leading by example.

Would you consider trying this method? Share your thoughts in the comments below! 👇

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### **Share this post if you think parents could use a new perspective on managing attitudes!** 🚀💡