Behavioral Problems in Children

Children can suffer with multiple behavioral problems. Knowing when normal childhood temper tantrums and adolescent rebellion have progressed to something more serious is important. Parents should understand the symptoms of behavioral problems and seek treatment when their child's behavior begins to interfere in daily functioning or poses risk to themselves or others.

Normal Development

• Every child goes through periods of misbehavior and acting out. Normal development requires that kids go through stages such as this to allow them to find their own identity and gain independence. Arguing with parents or teachers, crying and yelling at siblings and refusing to do what they are told are all typical behaviors that children and teens display during their development. Kids often act out behaviorally when they don't have the words to explain what they are feeling. Wanting freedom but being bound by the limits of parents and school is frustrating and will lead many kids to disobey the rules to flex their independence. Allowing your child space to rebel at times is helpful---and is actually an appropriate response.

Problem Behavior

• Some kids begin to express behaviors beyond the normal acting out. When kids engage in behaviors that pose a risk to their well-being, either physically, emotionally or legally or they engage in behaviors that are dangerous to others, it often represents a problem that needs to be addressed. Substance abuse, frequent fighting, cutting and sexual promiscuity are all behaviors that kids and teens become involved in that indicate their behavioral problems have crossed the line from normal development. Younger children may have extreme temper tantrums in which they bite and hit or throw things. These behaviors should signify a need to seek help.

Diagnosis

• If a child is expressing extreme emotions or behaviors, it is important to seek help. Scheduling an appointment with a counselor or psychiatrist to have the child properly diagnosed is important in understanding the reasons for the behavior. Many factors may be contributing to the child's behavior including social, educational and physical influences. A medical evaluation and psychological testing may help to uncover what is going on with the child.

Behavioral Disorders

• Your child may be diagnosed with a behavioral disorder such as Oppositional Defiant or Conduct Disorder or they may have an issue such as Attention Deficit Disorder, which might be having an impact on their ability to focus and behave. It may be that situational factors are making adjustment difficult for your child. Transitions such as changing schools or a parent's divorce can cause significant adjustment issues for some kids.

Treatment

• Once your child's behaviors have been identified, it can be easier to treat the child. Some kids may require medication to control their thoughts and impulses; others will be able to address their problems in counseling by developing coping strategies and talking about the things that are bothering them. Working with your child in family therapy and educating the entire family on the child's problems can help everyone take an active role in treatment. Utilizing resources such as the one below can help you get insightful information on behavioral disorders and connect you with local support in your area.