It is normal for children to occasionally become argumentative and disobedient, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychology (AACAP). While sporadic acts of defiant behavior toward parents and other authority is not uncommon from toddlerhood through the teen years, it can wreak havoc at home. When a child consistently displays anger and is uncooperative, his life and those around him may be seriously and negatively impacted.
Understanding
A child's anger is often a reaction to feelings of frustration. It may be caused by a number of factors that include anxiety and embarrassment. According to Psych.page.com, while families may exhibit their own frustration in response to a child's outburst, it's important for parents to empathize and keep in mind adults also become irritated and angry in their day-to-day lives. While children should be taught that anger is normal, they also must learn to manage it. Parents may help prevent tantrums by more explicitly explaining the rules they expect their kids to live by.
Oppositional Defiant Disorder
The AACAP says as many as 16 percent of school-age children and adolescents suffer from Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). It's believed that biological, psychological and social factors may all contribute to this condition. A child with ODD typically displays excessive arguing with parents and other adults, refuses to adhere to rules and requests, often shows signs of resentment, seek revenge and may purposely try to irritate or upset his family and other people.
Hateful Behavior
When a child with ODD is very distressed he may say cruel and hateful things to his siblings and parents. A child with ODD can be extremely challenging for parents and caregivers. The AACAP says power struggles are part of the condition. It's important to pick your battle of the wills carefully and remember to emphasize the positive and compliment your child when he follows your rules.
Remedies
Families whose lives are being disrupted by an angry child, especially one with ODD, may benefit from outside professional help. Child Healing.com says parent management programs can assist parents in managing a child's anger.
Individual and family psychotherapy may help your child learn to cope with her anger and improve communication in the household.
Outcome
According to Child Healing.com, when angry behaviors are successfully treated in young children the emotional and mental health of the child and the family can be strengthened. If a child's hostile impulses are not effectively dealt with, the problem may become more serious as time goes on.
