Don MacMannis, Ph.D.

Don MacMannis, Ph.D.
Child psychologist “Dr. Mac” has helped kids and families for over forty years. A graduate of Dartmouth and the University of Virginia, he is the Clinical Director of the Family Therapy Institute of Santa Barbara and co-author of two highly acclaimed parenting books — How’s Your Family Really Doing? and Who’s the Boss?  He offers a free webinar called The 4 Essential Keys to Parenting Strong-Willed Kids, and has been featured in national newspapers, magazines, radio programs, CNN, Time Magazine, Inside Edition, Time for Kids,  AOL,  and At Home-Live.

Blogs by Don MacMannis, Ph.D.

how to parent strong willed kids

How to Parent Strong-Willed Kids

When people are asked what they most value and cherish, the overwhelming majority say the same thing: their family. Parents are deeply committed to doing what is best for their children but, at the same time, may lack the knowledge or skills to do so. This can be particularly challenging when parenting bright, spirited, strong-willed… Read more »

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should you spank

Should I Spank My Child?

The majority of psychologists, researchers and parenting experts have come to the same conclusion: spanking and other forms of physical discipline can pose serious risks to children. The American Psychological Association discourages any form of physical punishment, seeing it as both harmful and unnecessary. Thirty countries in the world have banned physical punishment of children,… Read more »

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