Common Behavior Disorders in Kids

Children are liable to act out and portray certain dysfunctional behavior as they mature, this is because they are trying to acclimate with their surroundings and are getting to grips with their existence. However, a child suffering from a behavior disorder experiences problems that are severe enough to interfere with relationships and school performance, three most common of these disorders include;

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

This is one of the most popularly diagnosed disorders among children and young adults. Although it is often pigeon-holed as a childhood disorder, it is not something a kid eventually outgrows. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects about 11% of kids of school age, for 75% of people suffering from this disorder, the symptoms usually persist until adulthood. Symptoms typically include;

• Difficulty focusing

• Difficulty following instructions

• Making careless mistakes

• Avoiding tasks that require mental effort

• Disorganization

• Forgetfulness

• Frequently losing things

• Easily distracted

• Inability to sit still

• Impatience

• Incessant speaking

• Trouble participating in quiet activities

To diagnose, a clinician has to perform a comprehensive evaluation of the child's medical history, history of child behavior, the perspective of parents, teachers, and the child. The child could either be suffering from primarily inattentive, impulsive, or hyperactive ADHD and the diagnosis will guide a treatment plan which may include; parent training, behavioral therapy, and academic modifications (504 plans, IEPs, tutoring, etc.)

ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder)

ODD is characterized by persistent rebellion, defiance, and disobedience toward authority figures. Although oppositional behavior is normal during the child's developmental stage and adolescent years, when this behavior becomes frequent, hostile, and extreme in comparison to other kids of the same age, it may be an indication of ODD. Between 1% and 16% of school-aged children and adolescents suffer from ODD, symptoms include;

• Deliberately annoying other people

• Frequent temper tantrums

• Frequent arguments with adults and authority figures

• Showing vindictive tendencies

• Often questioning and refusing to follow

ODD often coexists with other disorders, this, for clinicians to properly diagnose, they have to complete a comprehensive evaluation of during which they also search for other adjoining disorders. Treatment usually involves family and individual therapy although medications may be utilized to control symptoms.

Conduct Disorder

Conduct disorder involves a repetitive pattern of violating the rights of other people or the violation of age-appropriate social rules. Kids suffering from conduct disorder are often perceived as "bad" or delinquent, but in truth, they are suffering from a mental illness.

Certain things put a child at an increased risk of suffering from this disorder. Child neglect or abuse, failure in school, and traumatic life experiences are all telling factors. Symptoms of the disorder include;

• Theivery

• Physical aggression toward people and even animals

• Serious rule violations

• Deceptive characteristics

• Vandalism

Children with conduct disorder need intensive intervention like residential placement and home support because they usually mistrust adults which complicates treatment. Treatment typically involves the use of physiotherapy, behavior therapy, and education, early intervention, and treatment usually produce the best outcome.

IN CONCLUSION

 

Toddlers and adolescents suffering from a mental disorder are usually misunderstood and singled out at home and in school. This could increase the severity of the situation, we should instead try to be more understanding and try to do more as these behaviors could sometimes be a cry for attention. If you think your child or pupil suffers from any behavior disorder, you should involve a professional who is more experienced on the subject.