[Clara Lou]

This was my post. Key words are bolded: I’m going to say that the root of some significant part of this is poor parenting skills.
Bi-polar is a very serious condition. It doesn't occur because of poor parenting--so my comment couldn't possibly apply to your situation. Please notice that I did not extend my comment to include ALL cases of children on medication. [I tried to word my statement in a way to make that clear.]

I've taught years of pre-k, elementary, and middle school. I have seen students placed on medication because the parent(s) just shrugged and said, "I don't know what else to do"--when the child simply needed a parent who understood how to set expectations and how to administer consequences.

[Politicalmom]

Sorry. I realize you added a qualifier. My post should have been to all.

I get tired of some of the arrogant people around here who think you can just beat all bad behavior out of a child.

I knew there was something wrong with my son from the time he was 2 years old. I got NO support, except from my husband.

My Dad said “He just needs to be spanked more.” at least a hundred times before he realized there was a PROBLEM. I could beat my son half to death and it would not change his behavior. I had to try to instill the really important things and let a lot of other things slide. I defy anyone to successfully discipline a child who doesn’t care about ANYTHING.