How do I know if my Child
has Behavior Problems?

Is your child unruly, impulsive and defiant? Is he/she strong-willed, aggressive or fearful? Do you notice signs of temperamental behavior or learning difficulties? Do these behaviors carry important meanings, or are these sufficient bases to believe that the little one needs counseling or therapy?

Most young children have the tendency to be occasionally mischievous, rebellious and reckless. So, do not be overworked, thinking that there is something wrong with him/her right away. It is perfectly normal for young people to be naughty, stubborn and boisterous. When their misbehavior, though, is persistent, intense and damaging to oneself and to others, there is a chance that their behavior could be outside the norm for their age.

Do not be anxious. Instead of fretting, it would be best to see a child counselor or therapist. They have been professionally trained to assess a child’s manifestation to diagnose potential behavioral issues. They usually watch out for symptoms that may indicate “oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), conduct disorder (CD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD),” being the most common, says the Better Health. “These three behavioral disorders share some common symptoms, so diagnosis can be difficult and time consuming…”

Children are not spared by emotional conditions, such as depression and anxiety as well. Excessive sadness and fears can affect their behavior. For instance, if they are distressed, they may scream at the top of their lungs if you will leave them or force them to sleep in their own bed/room. Confused about how they feel, they may also behave as a difficult child, always crying, looking pathetic or feeling uncomfortable most of the time.

When am I going to bring my child to a counselor or therapist? If your child has certain risk factors, it would be good to consult a child expert right away. What are the risk factors in children’s behavioral disorders?

If your child has behavioral issues, seeking help from a child counselor or therapist is a good, productive decision. Carolina Counseling Services – Fuquay-Varina (N. Main St.), NC, can help your child control or manage their symptoms/misdemeanors. We now offer online counseling, also called teletherapy or telemental health.