This is a fundamental framework and strategy to keep in mind whenever we interact with youth, whether as parents, professionals, or mentors. I credit Child Psychiatrist Phillip Trautmann, M.D. with this succinct insight. I call it the "Three C's" and it's especially helpful to consider when a youth's behavior is overwhelming.

The Three C's are Containment, Consistency, and Compassion and kids need all three.

Containment refers to setting clear and concrete expectations (or boundaries) for behavior, something like this: "Each Monday night at 6:30 pm you will get a large plastic bag and twist-tie from under the kitchen sink and immediately place the trash from every trash can in the house in that bag. Once the trash is collected you will immediately seal the bag with a twist-tie and place it on the front curb by the driveway. You will complete this chore by 6:45 pm or the following consequence will occur: . . . Any questions?"

Consistency refers to remembering your rules and enforcing your consequences, even when you feel like "throwing in the towel." If your expectations and consequences are reasonable for a teen's age and ability, at least he or she will learn that three things in life are now for certain: Death, Taxes, and Your Word.

Last, but certainly not least, is Compassion or Love. Kids need to consistently experience and know your love and acceptance for them. So keep your word when they do well, too; Catch Them Being Good (the fourth "C") and tell them about it. Love them without condition just because they deserve it.

All three of these help to build confident and caring individuals and it's never too late to begin.