Many parents notice that their children are disruptive and think one of two things:
- They’re just being a kid
- That’s just how they are
This causes parents to spend less time trying to modify the child’s behavior and more time trying to make excuses for them. If the parent can think that the behavior is a result of the child being bad or “being a child,” there’s no need to improve it, right?
It’s possible that disruptive behavior could be a result of a larger problem, like a disruptive behavior disorder or an underlying health problem.
We’re here to talk about how to identify a disruptive behavior disorder so you can seek help. Read on to learn the signs.
1. Behavior Happens in Several Locations
Regardless of whether the child has a conduct disorder or an oppositional defiant disorder, a clear sign that a disorder is present at all is that the behavior happens regardless of whether the child is.
Standard tantrums and misbehavior are normal. If a child acts out at home or school, they’re doing it because they feel safe and they know that this behavior may end in punishment, but that punishment is worthwhile if it gets them the attention that they need.
If your child is misbehaving everywhere, it’s a sign that something is wrong. There’s a need that isn’t being met and it’s time to seek out applied behavior analysis.
2.Child Is Aggressive Toward Others
Children can be “mean” even under the best of circumstances, but if a child is showing signs of aggression, that’s a larger problem.
Children who hit, bite, or otherwise attack other children or animals are displaying inappropriate and problematic behavior. If a standard punishment doesn’t solve the problem, it’s a sign that your child has a conduct disorder.
The aggression doesn’t have to be physical. Children with this disorder may also lie, steal, or emotionally abuse.
Children with disruptive behavior issues can threaten other children. The right treatment can help.
3.Child Shows Above-Average Resistance Toward Authority
It’s normal for children to test boundaries by disobeying authority figures, including yourself and your child’s teachers. If your child is showing frequent disruptive classroom behavior by defying the teacher (or any other authority figure) often, however, it’s a sign that there’s something wrong.
Again, this is something that will happen in multiple environments if it’s a true behavior disorder. If your child disobeys adults in your household, adults in their classroom, and authority figures elsewhere, it’s a cause for concern.
Pay Attention to Disruptive Behavior
Disruptive behavior isn’t just “kids being kids.” Children who struggle with disruptive behavior disorders need help if you want them to thrive. Start visiting a mental health professional and developing strategies for disruptive behavior now so you can stop the problem while your child is still young and malleable.
Disruptive children can grow into fantastic adults as long as you’re willing to put in time and effort to their growth.
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