7 Types of Behavioral Problems in Children

Children often react in ways that frustrate their parents. However, when should you be concerned about behavioral problems? When are their actions no longer typical and become an issue? Knowing the common behavioral problems in children can help you navigate this season and ask for support when needed.

7 Common Types of Behavioral Problems in Children

Temper tantrums, outbursts, hitting other people, and knocking over things are common behaviors in children with behavioral problems, but so are changes in sleep patterns and appetite, social withdrawal, self-harm, and suicidal ideations.

There are several types of behavioral problems in children that are often categorized as disruptive behaviors, neurodevelopmental disorders, or emotional disorders.

ADHD

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a disruptive behavior disorder characterized by the inability to focus and concentrate, disorganization, fidgeting, and sometimes impulsive behaviors. Children with ADHD may forget more often or lose homework. They can be impatient at times.

Unfortunately, many adults label ADHD children as difficult, which can lead to children fulfilling the adults’ expectations, making their behavior worse.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder

Children go through rebellious stages, but children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder constantly argue with others, have issues with authority, blame others for their own mistakes, and try to annoy other people. They break the rules and question why they should have to follow them in the first place. They may hit others and say mean things.

A child with Oppositional Defiant Disorder may find it hard to make and keep friends unless they learn how to manage their behavioral problems.

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder. The spectrum runs from mild symptoms to severe. One child with autism may only suffer from social interaction issues and the inability to relate to others and empathize.

In contrast, another child may have communication problems and be unable to communicate verbally. If a child has autism, the medical professional must understand how the disorder affects that individual patient.

Aggression

Aggression can have many factors. Children who have grown up in troubled homes, suffered trauma, abandonment, or neglect, or have been abused may develop aggression toward themselves and others.

Individual and family counseling can often help with aggression, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Children are taught the necessary skills to manage their own emotions and social behaviors.

Anxiety Disorders

Children can suffer from anxiety disorders just as well as adults. Parents may be unaware of their child’s anxiety. Children with anxiety may complain about headaches or tummy aches. They may seem irritable, moody, or clingy. You may have trouble dropping your child off at school because they would rather stay with you or worry about what will happen while you are gone.

A child with anxiety may withdraw from others, preferring not to make eye contact or engage in conversation. Their fears can take root at night in the form of nightmares, night terrors, or trigger urinary incontinence at night.

Depression

Depression is an emotional disorder characterized by persistent sadness. Children with depression may develop rapid weight loss or gain, appetite changes, and sleep disruptions. They may withdraw from friends and stop achieving academically. Angry outbursts, mood swings, and impulsive behaviors can occur.

Depression can create relationship problems both at home and at school. Counseling for depression typically includes talk therapy and psychotherapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder in children is an emotional disorder that often overlaps with other mental health conditions. Bipolar disorder is characterized by high highs, known as mania, and low lows, known as depressive episodes. Children can cycle through these stages for weeks at a time.

During the manic episodes, your child may have lots of energy, be restless, and have trouble falling asleep. They may move quickly and accomplish a great deal academically or be unable to concentrate due to racing thoughts.

During depressive episodes, they may sleep excessively, withdraw from friends, develop academic problems, and suffer from mood swings. In severe cases of bipolar disorder, a child may have suicidal ideations. If you suspect your child of self-harm or suicidal thoughts, seek help immediately.

Christian Counseling for Children in Plano, Texas

If any of the above behavioral problems sound familiar, contact our office today at Plano Christian Counseling to schedule a session with a Christian counselor in Plano, Texas. Many behavior problems in children can overlap, such as ADHD and bipolar disorder, or Oppositional Defiant Disorder.

Counseling can teach your child strategies to manage symptoms, overcome impulsive behaviors, and change thought patterns. Family counseling in Plano is also an option to inform, educate, and work with the family as a whole to help the child and repair relationships. Give us a call today to get started.