insult. When her son doesn’t go to the rest period right away, she also does not
get caught up in an argument or little-adult conversation.Interrupting
Round One
Mom and Dad are having a private conversation on the couch about
the recent hospitalization of Mom’s father. Seven-year-old Michelle
jumps in between them.
“Hi, guys!”
“Hi, honey. Listen, Mom and Dad have to talk about something
very important for a few minutes, so you go play for a little bit.”
“I wanna be here with you. I promise I won’t listen.”
“No, dear. Come on now, you go and play.”
“I don’t have anything to do.” (Badgering)
“Listen, young lady. We’re not going to tell you again!”
“THERE’S NOTHING ELSE FOR ME TO DO!” (Intimidation)
“Do you want a spanking?”
(Michelle starts crying.) (Martyrdom)
“OK, that’s 1.”
(Michelle leaves, crying.)
How Did They Do?
Pretty sloppy job by Mom and Dad. In fairness to these parents, this is a touchy
situation because Michelle’s entrance is very friendly and these parents don’t
want to tell her what they’re discussing just yet. They only get around to counting
after ridiculous attempts at persuasion, threatening a spanking, and risking World
War III for nothing. They eventually recover and count, but some damage has still
been done.