Doug Bolton, PhD: Navigating Emotional Regulation, Parenting, Divorce, and the Journey to Healing

This week, Mike is joined by clinical psychologist and educational leader Doug Bolton, PhD, to take a deep dive into the complexities of children's misbehavior and stress. They discuss the shift from traditional views that focus on motivation and consequences to understanding misbehavior as a reaction to stress. Doug provides consultation, supervision, and professional development to parents, educators, and clinicians throughout Illinois, creating communities that foster student and staff resilience. Doug shares personal stories and professional expertise, offering practical strategies from his book, 'Untethered: Creating Connected Families, Schools, and Communities to Raise a Resilient Generation.' Listeners will gain valuable insights into emotional regulation, the impacts of parental stress on children, and the importance of attuned and quality time in fostering resilience and mental well-being. Doug explains how misbehavior is often a sign of underlying stress and highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing these emotional needs. The conversation touches on his own experiences with family and divorce, unpacking how these events shaped his understanding of relationships and attachment. Mike and Doug also explore the challenges of parenting and offer practical advice on how to navigate these difficulties while maintaining strong connections with children. This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone interested in understanding and improving both their own and their child’s mental health.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Doug’s Resources Page Dr. Stuart Shanker’s Book    Connect with Doug: Website Book Instagram LinkedIn X   Connect with Mike: Linktree   SPONSORS: Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast   AFFILIATES: Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside   Want to become a show sponsor or affiliate? Email mike@socialchameleon.us   Copyright © 2025 Mike’D Up! with Mike DiCioccio | For permission to use this content in any way, please email mike@socialchameleon.us