All children exhibit problem behaviors from time to time and all of them have an underlying cause. However, not all problem behaviors can be placed under a single category, nor can caregivers respond to all of them in the same way. Caregivers should try to uncover the roots of a behavior and assess a child's individual temperament before implementing a proper method of discipline.
Defining Problem Behaviors
Defining "normal" behaviors in children depends on a child's age, development and personality, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Whereas "normal" child behaviors fit within social expectations and a child's level of development, problem behaviors go against those expectations. For example, a child in elementary school may not be expected to defy authority in the same way that a teen does.
Reasons for Misbehavior
In some cases, children exhibit problem behaviors if they desire attention or want to test the limits placed by authority figures, according to the University of Missouri Extension. Children may also misbehave if they are striving to become independent from their parents, if they feel threatened and are trying to protect themselves, or if they feel overwhelmed, insecure, tired, hungry or ill. Sometimes children pick up on what authority figures deem "problem behaviors" by watching others, including their own parents.
Changing Problem Behaviors
Don't attempt to change your child's problem behaviors all at once, says the University of Michigan Health System. You will be less likely to overwhelm or confuse your child if you focus your efforts on one to two particularly hazardous or bothersome behaviors. Your response to those behaviors will depend on your child's age. If a younger child's argumentative nature is getting out of hand, try to reduce instances of arguments by giving her choices. For example, you may ask her whether she wants to wear her white or red socks and whether she would like to first clean her room or the living room.
On the other hand, a toddler's problem behaviors may best be remedied by redirecting her attention to another activity and sending her to occasional short time-outs. In some cases, a logical and natural consequence, such as taking away the toy that caused a fight between siblings, is enough to remedy problem behaviors in the future. Ultimately, the University of Michigan Health System says that consequences are most effective if they are immediate and consistent.
Behavior Disorders
Behavior disorders cause some children to act in ways that transcend typical childhood mischief or rebellion. MedlinePlus recommends asking for help if your child has been behaving in a hostile, aggressive or disruptive manner for at least six months. Some problem behaviors may include damaging property, harming themselves or others, lying, stealing, problems in school, using drugs or drinking, frequent arguments and tantrums, sexual activity at an early age and constant hostility toward authority figures.
Outside Treatment
If a child consistently exhibits problem behaviors, he should receive a full evaluation to rule out or properly diagnose conditions, such as behavior disorders, mood disorders or learning disabilities, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Early intervention methods, such as behavior therapy and specialized education, will give the child a chance to reach his full potential.
