Children are naturally inclined to resist and oppose when feeling pressed upon or controlled. Although the reaction is quite normal and even healthy in certain circumstances, its manifestations and impact can be highly disruptive and disturbing, making life difficult for parents and teachers. Counterwill can take many forms from negativism to noncompliance depending upon the age and personality of the child or teen. We will discuss the meaning of this deeprooted instinct as well as the dynamics that control its existence and expression.