The Subtle Shift in Mindset that Changes Outcomes for Youth in Crisis

The Subtle Shift in Mindset That Changes Outcomes for Youth in Crisis?

In the world of youth caregiving, labeling children and adolescents based on their behaviors is commonplace. Caregivers juggle many responsibilities and stressors, and quick categorization of children based on the challenges they present is an understandable response. However, an important shift in mindset has gained recognition among those who care for youth in crisis—a shift that moves away from labeling and punishing toward understanding the underlying causes of behavioral challenges. By embracing this approach, caregivers can pave the way for more effective support systems that empower and transform the lives of youth in crisis.?

At the McKinley MCertified Training Center, we work hard to raise awareness and train caregivers in this mindset shift. In this article, we will explore what this can look like.?

The Limitations of Labels?

Labels can be seductive. They offer quick and easy ways to categorize individuals based on their outward behaviors, allowing us to make assumptions and judgments without fully comprehending the complexity of their experiences. However, when it comes to youth in crisis, these labels do more harm than good.

Labeling a struggling youth as “disruptive,” “difficult,” or “bad” fails to acknowledge the underlying factors that contribute to their behavior. It overlooks the possibility of trauma, mental health struggles, or adverse childhood experiences. By focusing solely on behavior, caregivers can perpetuate a cycle of misunderstanding and stigmatization, reinforcing negative beliefs children and adolescents learned about themselves, hindering their path to healing and growth.?

Furthermore, such labeling assumes challenging behaviors are the product of a child’s will, rather than the result of underdeveloped skill sets and maladaptive coping mechanisms that may be the only tools they have for navigating their environments.?

The Power of Shifting Perspectives?

The first step to change outcomes for youth in crisis lies in shifting our mindset. Rather than labeling, caregivers can foster a more compassionate and effective approach by focusing on the youth’s distress. Challenging behaviors typically occur in moments of emotional dysregulation because children are hurting, anxious, or overwhelmed, so they “act out.”??

By adopting this perspective, caregivers see youth as individuals in need. They can show interest in and concern for their struggles, instead of reacting with judgment and punishment. Over time this empathy creates a safe space where young people feel seen, heard, and understood, ultimately fostering the trust necessary to work with them on underlying causes.?

Uncovering Underlying Causes?

Knowing the underlying causes of challenging behaviors requires the trust that comes from curiosity, empathy, and active listening. After fostering these trusting relationships with youth, caregivers can collaborate with them to identify potential triggers, traumas, or unmet needs that drive these challenging behaviors. For instance, a youth who exhibits aggressive behavior when told to turn off the light when it’s time to go to sleep may be reacting to a history of abuse related to bedtime, a fact only shared with a trusted caregiver.??

Collaborative Problem Solving ?

When caregivers adopt a mindset focused on perceiving and addressing the root causes of behaviors, the impact can be transformative. By reframing their role from disciplinarians to advocates for healing, they can empower youth to develop resilience, self-awareness, and problem-solving skills.?

Rather than punishing the young person for aggressive outbursts at bedtime, a caregiver who understands where that behavior originated can work collaboratively to address the underlying causes. What would make the youth feel safer at bedtime? What does the child think is a good solution? Would a night-light do the trick? Great idea!??

Such a conversation involves youth in their own problem-solving. They realize they are not alone with their stressors, that they can find new and better ways to solve their problems, that they are capable people rather than a “problem.”?

The McKinley MCertified Training Center Can Assist?

At the McKinley MCertified Training Center, we offer training for caregivers to reorient their relationships with their youth. With informational resources, live instruction, and role play, we teach caregivers how to prioritize curiosity, empathy, and active listening, as well as how to strategize with co-caregivers to help youth develop the skill sets they need to flourish.?

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The subtle shift in mindset from labeling and punishing youth based on their behaviors to understanding the underlying causes can significantly change outcomes for young people in crisis. By adopting a more compassionate and empathetic approach, caregivers can create an environment that promotes healing, growth, and transformation. We encourage all caregivers to embrace this new perspective and work toward creating a society where youth in crisis are met with understanding, support, and opportunities for positive change. Reach out to us to learn about our current offerings at [email protected]!