How to Understand Child Behavior Disorders

When children are struggling at home and at school, a behavior disorder might be a roadblock to their success. Behavior disorders can have a profound impact on a child's overall health. Often, one disorder will be coupled with another. Children with behavior disorders are at a greater risk for school failure, mental health disturbances and suicide. Understanding the causes, symptoms and treatment procedures for behavior disorders can help adults when assisting troubled children in getting what they need to succeed in life.

Instructions

    • 1

      Know the causes. Behavior disorders are not all the same. Children who experience trauma in some way by abuse or by witnessing a natural disaster may have post-traumatic stress disorder. The website Psychology.com says that autism appears before the age of three, and is characterized by difficulty interacting and communicating with others. Deficits or injuries to certain areas of the brain can cause conduct disorders. A child may be depressed, or possibly bi-polar, which may be caused by a chemical imbalance in the body.

    • 2

      Look for symptoms. The child may find it difficult to focus on tasks for an extended period of time, or behave impulsively. According to the website Psychology.com, children with behavior disorders may experience changes in motivation, cease caring for themselves or have destructive thoughts. Children suffering from anxiety may experience panic attacks and rapid heart rate. Conduct disorders may cause a child to act on negative feelings and impulses by hurting others or showing aggression.

    • 3

      Seek professional help. A child's doctor is a good starting place for questions about abnormal behavior. Experts indicate that upsetting or traumatic changes in a child's life may cause symptoms of a disorder. Medications can help with many behavior disorders, while cognitive or psycho-therapy can greatly assist others, according to Psychology.com. Therapy may be recommended for parents as well, so that they will be prepared with the best practices when helping their child.

    • 4

      Have a treatment plan, and follow it. A team consisting of doctors, teachers and parents can help a troubled child in school and at home. Getting an accurate diagnosis from the child's doctor can ensure that the child has the right medicine for their condition and help teachers in implementing the best educational plan for the child at school. With proper educational support, these children can experience great growth both academically and socially.

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