Behavioural Disorders In Kids
Some children have extremely difficult and challenging behaviour, which are outside the norm of their age.These problems can result from temporary stressors in the child’s life, or they might represent more enduring disorders. The most common disruptive behaviour disorders include oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), conduct disorder (CD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Boys are more likely to suffer from behavioural disorders,than girls.
Treatment options include parent management training, cognitive behaviour therapy, medication and treatment for associated problems.
Disruptive behavioural disorders are complicated and may include many different factors working in combination. For example, a child who exhibits the delinquent behaviours of CD may also have ADHD, anxiety, depression, and a difficult home life.
For Example:
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
- Depression.
- Learning disorders.
- Conduct disorders.
It is important to rule out acute stressors that might be disrupting the child’s behaviour. For example, a sick parent or victimising by other children might be responsible for sudden changes in a child’s typical behaviour and these factors have to be considered initially.
Treatment is usually multifaceted and depends on the particular disorder and factors contributing to it, but may include:
- Parental education – for example, teaching parents how to communicate with and manage their children.
- Family therapy – the entire family is helped to improve communication and problem-solving skills.
- Cognitive behavioural therapy – to help the child to control their thoughts and behaviour.
- Social training – the child is taught important social skills, such as how to have a conversation or play cooperatively with others.
- Anger management – the child is taught how to recognise the signs of their growing frustration and given a range of coping skills designed to defuse their anger and aggressive behaviour. Relaxation techniques and stress management skills are also taught.
- Support for associated problems – for example, a child with a learning difficulty will benefit from professional support.
- Encouragement – many children with behavioural disorders experience repeated failures at school and in their interactions with others. Encouraging the child to excel in their particular talents (such as sport) can help to build self-esteem.
- Medication – to help control impulsive behaviours.
- In-depth interviews – Diagnosis method also includes in-depth interviews with the parents, child and teachers.