Do Parents Need a License? No — But PMT Is the Next Best Thing

Did you need a license or certification before becoming a parent? Of course not. Parenting is the only job where you’re expected to know what to do without training, breaks, or a manual. And while we all do our best, the truth is — parenting is hard.

Many parents find themselves caught in daily battles over homework, bedtime, or screen time. What begins as a small disagreement can quickly escalate into shouting, tears, and frustration for everyone involved. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone — and there is help.

One of the most effective, evidence-based approaches for parents is Parent Management Training (PMT).

What is Parent Management Training (PMT)?

PMT is a research-based treatment that teaches parents proven strategies to improve their child’s behavior and strengthen family relationships. Unlike quick-fix advice or discipline tips, PMT is grounded in decades of scientific evidence.

Research shows PMT is especially effective for children with:

• ADHD (improving focus, cooperation, and emotional regulation)

• Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) (reducing arguing, aggression, and defiance)

• Anxiety or emotional challenges (supporting coping skills and routines)

Does PMT Really Work?

Yes — and the research is strong. Decades of studies show that PMT is one of the most effective approaches available for families:

• Children with ADHD show up to 50% reduction in disruptive behaviors after PMT.

• 70–80% of children with ODD improve significantly when parents participate.

• Parents who complete PMT report lower stress, less frustration, and greater confidence in managing behavior.

• Long-term studies show children whose parents received PMT often need fewer school interventions and develop healthier social skills.

  
  

Because of these results, PMT is considered a gold standard, first-line treatment by the American Psychological Association (APA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

How PMT Helps Parents

Through PMT, parents learn how to:

• Reduce power struggles by setting clear, consistent expectations.

• Strengthen relationships through positive reinforcement and quality time.

• Encourage cooperation so children are more likely to listen and follow directions.

• Build confidence in handling challenging behaviors calmly.

• Support long-term growth with strategies that adapt as children get older.

A Parent’s Story

One mother I worked with shared that homework time had become a nightly nightmare. Her son, who had ADHD, would resist sitting down and often ended up in tears or arguments. With PMT, she learned how to give step-by-step instructions, use positive reinforcement, and break tasks into manageable chunks. Within weeks, homework was no longer a battleground, and both mother and child felt less stressed.

Why Personal Support Matters More Than Google or AI

Sure — you can search online, read blogs, or even ask AI for parenting tips. The challenge is that advice is often generic. Parents are left wondering: “But will this actually work for my child?”

That’s where personalized support makes all the difference. Every child has a unique mix of strengths, challenges, and personality traits. What works beautifully for one family may not work for another.

Ready for Change?

Parenting doesn’t come with a license, but with the right support, it can feel a lot less overwhelming.

📞 Contact  Dr. Ryan Yam at Dual Minds Psychology to schedule a consultation. Let’s build a personalized PMT plan that helps your child thrive and brings more peace into your home.

About the Author

Ryan Yam, Psy.D. - Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP4497) and founder of Dual Minds Psychology. Dr. Yam specializes in ADHD treatment, executive functioning skill development, and culturally sensitive care for children and adolescents.