Part of the process of growth in children involves testing limits by rebelling against parental authority. As a result, children are almost expected to have some tantrums and occasionally get into mischief. Misbehavior may be considered problematic when it is aggressive, it occurs on a regular basis, and it lasts for an extended period of time.
Defining Normal Behavior
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, "normal" behavior in children primarily depends on a child's personality, age, and level of development. While "normal" behavior typically fits in with social and developmental expectations, "bad" behavior defies them. As an example, a toddler or teenager may be expected to consistently test the rules in place, but a child in the middle stages of childhood may be diagnosed with abnormal behavior if he consistently acts in a defiant or oppositional manner.
Signs of Behavior Problems
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) lists a series of signs that a child may have a behavior problem that needs to be addressed. A child who threatens or harms herself, others or pets should be controlled in order to avoid undue injuries. Likewise, a child who destroys property, acts hostile toward authority figures, frequently argues, lies, skips school and performs poorly in academics should also be treated. Moreover, a child who engages in drinking, drug use and early sexual activity has behavior problems as her actions pose a threat to herself and others.
Causes of Bad Behavior
Both biological and environmental factors may cause a child to develop disruptive behavior disorders, according to the Mental Health Association of Westchester. For example, children at the highest risk for Oppositional Defiant and Conduct Disorders (ODD and CD) are those who were born with low birth weights, have sustained neurological damage or have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Children may also have higher chances of developing behavior disorders if they were rejected by their mothers, separated from their parents, if they live in inadequate foster homes, endure abuse, witness abuse on a regular basis or live in poverty.
Parenting Techniques
The University of Michigan Health System recommends that parents help their children change unwanted behaviors by gradually altering parenting habits. For example, it recommends focusing on only one or two problem behaviors (likely, the ones that are most dangerous) rather than trying to change too much at once. It also suggests allowing children to make some of their own small decisions to give them a greater sense of power over their own lives (e.g. "Would you prefer 'X' cereal or 'Y' cereal?") Other helpful parenting techniques involve consistent praise for positive behavior to reinforce it, and consistent follow through with an established punishment---typically time-outs for younger children and revocation of privileges for older children---for every offense.
Get Help
A child whose actions are harmful, dangerous, disrespectful and difficult to control may have a behavior disorder that requires professional treatment. Also, a child should be evaluated if sudden changes in behavior have manifested alongside physical changes, such as difficulties sleeping and headaches.
