My husband has a 9-year-old son who has been sleeping with his "mommy" since he was out of a crib. She has coddled him to death and gives into his every whim. If he wants, he gets - no is not an option. As a result, he has severe emotional, detachment and behavioral issues. He whines incessantly, his school work has suffered and everyone is at their wits end with what to do.
The boy's mother is finally realizing the Frankenstein she has created as her new boyfriend is the target of the child's anger and resentment. The man gets kicked, threatened and told to leave the house. The child is jealous because the boyfriend is getting mommy's attention.
She has finally agreed with my husband (after years of him pushing) to get the boy into therapy. In the interim, I was wondering if anyone could recommend any good books on this subject. While she agrees that he has problems, she doesn't want to acknowledge that her behaviors might be reinforcing some of this behavior.
Any good suggestions?
Thanks!