An experiment

I'm trying to put in practice the notion of love and acceptance along with being firm around basic and already explained rules on a very sweet, helpful, intelligent kid, who's problems seem to be lack of faith and fear of authority figures, which comes out in his faulty evaluation of situations.. and him feeling hurt and defiant in his behaviour. I hope this approach works. He's a great kid! And this seems to be the only thing bringing him down. If you have suggestions, pls share.