How Do I Deal With a Child With Behavior Problems?

Patience is key to dealing with any type of behavior disorder. Behavior problems in one child have an impact on every child in the family and are stressful to parents. Children with behavior problems usually struggle with friendships and in school.

Indications

Recognize the warning signs: aggression, defiance, tantrums, stealing, lying, damaging property; skipping school. Most children exhibit some of these occasionally. Concern is warranted when behaviors persist beyond the appropriate age or occur frequently during a period longer than six months or when a child shows no remorse.

Types

Behavior disorders include attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder. Seek diagnosis and intervention by qualified professionals. Children with these disorders are at heightened risk of substance abuse and mental illness.

Solutions

Ask for help. Caring for children with behavioral problems is exhausting. Often you feel other parents are judging you. It is important to feel you are not alone. Join a support group. Seek professional advice. Educate yourself about problem behaviors through reading. Stay positive and remember to praise good behaviors.

Expert Insight

Use the "Highway Patrol Approach" to discipline: have simple rules with logical consequences. Ensure your child understands the rules. Do not bend rules or alter punishments. Enforce consequences immediately and consistently. Speak calmly and politely.

References

• Medline Plus: Child Behavior Disorders
• University of Michigan Health System: Behavior Problems
• Family Doctor Online: Child Behavior-What Parents Can Do to Change Their Child's Behavior
• ADHD Made Simple: The Highway Patrol Approach to Discipline
• "From Chaos to Calm: Effective Parenting for Challenging Children with ADHD and Other Behavioral Problems"; Janet Heininger and Sharon Weiss; 2001

Resources

• Kids Health: Emotions and Behavior
• SAMHSA: Helping Children and Youth with Conduct Disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder
• Center for Effective Parenting
• NYU Child Study Center: About Discipline---Helping Children Develop Self-Control