When children, teens or even adults Dabble with the Dark Side, it is often their reaction to their loss of power in their current life situation. The appeal is for them to be in charge of something. They may show this tendency in their gaming choices, their internet interests, or their choice of friends and the topics they discuss.

I point out how hormonal stimulation of endorphins and adrenalin happens when the risky nature of this dabbling makes them feel alive. It could be an indicator of suicidal ideas. It is in this deep struggle where they are trying to find some sense of personal value or the proof they have none. Don’t let it pass by your attention if you know of someone who is Dabbling with the Dark Side.

With You In Mind
Norm

In this video, Norm expands on the previous video about how children absorb the atmosphere around them and he goes into more detail about the concept of powerful influences.

Children mimic the things that most powerfully influence them so there is a tendency with children to try to get close to and replicate the person or people in their lives who have the most power. Think about how children imitate other children or their favourite TV hero and you will notice how kids tend to imitate the ones they feel hold the power.

In the case of the child’s parents and their influence, Norm gives an example of a mother who is snappy with the father, verses the father who brushes off his wife and ignores her wishes and he explains why the action of the father has more impact on the child then the actions of the mother.

He goes on to explain the effects and influence of the people who care for the child the most which also holds a lot of power and helps a child to define their value. Sometimes the person who holds the most power in this area is not a parent but a grandparent or other significant elder.

These are two very different examples of how people exert power in a child’s life and how the child absorbs this influence. Take a look at the video as Norm relates some of his discoveries through his years of counseling with children and parents and please feel free to add your comments or questions.

With You in Mind