126: Understanding and Managing Resistance: Supporting Students Who Push Back?

Why do some students push back against authority, struggle with compliance, or resist help? In this episode, Britt Rathbone, LCSW-C, BCD, CGP, a nationally recognized adolescent therapist, breaks down why students resist and how parents, educators, and therapists can respond effectively. From Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) to executive function challenges, anxiety, and sensory sensitivities, we explore practical strategies to build trust, reframe behavior, and create meaningful change.



Three Key Takeaways:

✔️ Resistance is communication – Students who push back aren’t being defiant; they’re expressing unmet needs.

✔️ Relationships before redirection – Trust is the foundation for helping kids regulate and engage.

✔️ Reframe the approach – Small shifts in language and flexibility can drastically change student responses.



Britt shares his expertise from over 30 years working with treatment-resistant teens and co-authoring "What Works with Teens" and "Dialectical Behavior Therapy for At-Risk Adolescents." Tune in for a deep dive into why resistance happens and how to turn it into growth.



🎧 Listen now: Podcast Link



Connect with Wendy Taylor

📲 Instagram: @learningessentials

💼 LinkedIn: Wendy Taylor

📘 Facebook: Learning Essentials

🌐 Website: LearningEssentialsEDU.com

📖 Course: Cracking the Code to Special Education Eligibility



Connect with Britt Rathbone, LCSW-C, BCD, CGP

🌐 Website: Capital Youth Services

📘 Book: What Works With Teens

📖 Therapy Practice: Psychology Today Profile



Further Resources:

Understanding PDA: PDA Society

Managing Resistance in Kids: Child Mind Institute

Anxiety & School Refusal: ADAA



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