The National Institute of Mental Health states that a recent survey shows that 13 percent of children between the ages of 8 and 15 have a mental disorder. A mental disorder can contribute to behavioral problems in a child, with society labeling him a problem child. Children who are not able to process their behavior or lack problem solving skills can have trouble adjusting to a normal life and require medical and educational intervention to confirm a diagnosis and reinforce behavior.
Types
If your child has been labeled a problem child, she is most likely suffering from one or more varieties of mental illness. The National Mental Health Information Center identifies several different types. Some of the most common being anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorder, bipolar disorder, learning disorder, eating disorders, mental disorders and depression. A child may have a combination of several or just one. If your child is having problems in school, you will need the school psychologist to diagnose her so that she will be eligible for special education services. She will have to meet certain criteria to get help in the classroom.
Behavior
Problem children may showcase an array of problems and behaviors. The Family Doctor website states that one way to identify a problem child is if his behavior does not match the expectations within your family. If that behavior inhibits his ability to work in the classroom or interact with peers, then you have an issue. If he is constantly talking and disrupting other classmates and not focusing on his work, he could be suffering from attention deficit disorder or a learning disorder. Some problem children showcase violence in the classroom or at home with siblings. This could be aggressive behavior, such as hitting, name calling or torture that is repeated over time.
Identification
A child's behavior can often be the catalyst for action from parents and teachers. If she shows signs of withdrawal or lack of socialization, she could be suffering from depression or anxiety. If she is repeatedly acting out, is violent with other children or herself or violates the rights of other students or people, she could have a conduct disorder, states the Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Lying, stealing and vandalism are components of conduct disorder. Truancy can also be an indication of a problem child.
Considerations
Problem children with behavioral and mental challenges have the right to be treated equally and fairly. According to the National Association of School Psychologists, this begins with getting the proper diagnosis. In order for your child to be diagnosed, you must give the school permission to conduct a series of psychological tests to determine where your child is physically, mentally and socially. This will help determine the right type of educational support and intervention needed to increase stability with his education. You may also wish to have a separate evaluation with a psychologist or medical doctor to confirm a diagnosis or review therapy and medicinal treatment if necessary.
Treatment
Treatment for disorders relating to a problem child involves several factors working in conjunction with each other. Before you allow any type of stimulant or depressant drug to be prescribed to your child, have a complete medical history and physical evaluation conducted first. This will rule out any type of hormonal issues or disease that could mask a psychiatric disorder. The American Psychiatric Association notes that some psychological problems can mask medical problems, so a second opinion or seeking help from medical and psychiatric professionals may be necessary for treatment success.
References
- National Institute of Mental Health: Child and Adolescent Mental Health
- National Mental Health Information Center: Children's Mental Health Facts
- Family Doctor.Org: Child Behavior: What Parents Can Do to Change Their Child
- American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: Conduct Disorder
- "Psychiatric Services"; Book Review: When Psychological Problems Mask Medical Disorders: A Guide for Psychotherapists; Ralph J. Seymour, M.D.; November 1998
