When do behavior problems become a disorder?
Kids, teens, and even young adults frequently have problematic behavior at home and at school. Behavior problems like hyperactivity, inattention, impulsivity, frequent tantrums/meltdowns, aggression, or rule-breaking can definitely get in the way of family life, school, and/or social activities. If you are struggling to manage your child’s behavior, these behavior problems might be big enough to be considered a mental health disorder. It’s important to note that some of these behavior problems might be related to anxiety, OCD, trauma, or learning difficulties, so it’s important for a Licensed Psychologist to thoroughly assess the problem before deciding on the best diagnosis and treatment plan.
What types of mental health disorders can cause behavior problems for kids, teens, and young adults?
What is the best therapy for behavior problems?
Parent coaching is supported by lots of scientific research to be effective is reducing problem behaviors at home and at school. For parents/guardians of children ages 3-13, Parent Management Training (PMT) involves learning about behavior and teaching new skills for parents to use at home. PMT skills are often helpful when there are overlapping symptoms of anxiety, OCD, and/or behavioral problems happening all at once.
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is helpful for children ages 2-7 years old who are struggling with behavior problems. PCIT helps to change the interactions between parents/guardians and their children in order to reduce conflict and improve parent-child relationships. Online PCIT works particularly well, since parents/guardians will wear headphones and hear live coaching while they play with their child at home.
How does online parent coaching for problem behaviors work?
Online parent coaching for problem behaviors involves a lot of learning, talking, and practicing. Parent coaching works particularly well online because practice can happen right where the behavior is causing the most difficulty – at home, at school, or even out in the world. For the first few sessions, we will learn about each other and about how behavioral problems work. For the rest of treatment, we will be learning and practicing skills together – and feeling like more confident, compassionate caregivers!
When to Seek Help
If your child or teen is struggling with behavioral problems, it might be time to bring in a professional to figure out what’s be going on. Please remember that some behavior problems might require a more extensive evaluation to find the best diagnosis and treatment for your child. Click here to schedule a FREE 15-minute consultation to determine if online parent coaching with Brave Young Minds might be a good fit. If you’re ready to schedule an evaluation right now, click here to see available times.