Search Results for: temperament

While you would prefer it if your children behaved perfectly all the time, bad behavior as a child grows should be expected from time to time. Some behavioral problems, such as biting or temper tantrums, are usually simply a part of childhood, while other behavioral problems, such as excessive anger or hyperactivity may need special treatment.

When your child yells, “I hate you,” at the top of her lungs and then slams the door to her room in your face, it may take all your strength to hold yourself back and not react. But, managing your own anger in the heat of the moment will make everything easier in the long run. Your goal is to teach your child to gain control of her temper and stop the outbursts. If you engage in a yelling match, you’re only adding fuel to the fire.

Behavior and conduct disorders rank among the most common reasons why children are referred for mental health evaluations, according to The Ohio State Medical Center. Parents should seek the advice of professionals if a child shows symptoms, because a failure to deal with the problem effectively can put a child at a higher risk for failing in school or developing other mental health problems. The challenge is in recognizing the difference between normal and abnormal behavior.

Parents can have a better idea of whether a child’s behavior is normal if they know what to expect. Since not all children are predictable and easy going, what defines normal childhood behavior varies and depends on a child’s age, developmental stage and own personality. Behavioral problems among preschoolers may involve long-lasting temper tantrums, disruptive behavior or both physical and verbal aggression.