CHILD BEHAVIOR ISSUES
Child Behavioral Therapist, Counselor in Round Rock, Killeen, Austin, TX
Some of the most difficult challenges for a parent are their child’s behavioral problems. Unlike an injury or disease, the “cure” is not always evident. Added is the fact that as a child grows, his or her personality is also developing and constantly changing. Almost overnight, the quiet three year old can suddenly become a disruptive four year old.
It is important for parents to understand the changes that a child goes through during each phase of development. This means that “rules” will need to change as the child grows and becomes more independent. The rules you use at eight will probably not be effective with a 13 year old.
Parents should decide what behaviors are going to be acceptable and what behavior will not be tolerated based on the age and development of the child. These guidelines of behavior are important for the child to feel secure in a structured environment. "No rules" often leads to chaos in the family and can leave long-lasting problems in the child. On the other hand, too much structure or too many rules that don't allow a child to grow, can lead to behavioral problems.
When children's behavior is complex and challenging, some parents find reasons not to respond. For instance, parents often rationalize ("It's not my fault"), despair ("Why me?"), wish it would go away ("Kids outgrow these problems anyway"), deny ("There's really no problem"), hesitate to take action ("It may hurt his feelings"), avoid ("I didn't want to face his anger") or fear rejection ("He won't love me").
If you are worried about your child's behavior or development, or if you are uncertain as to how one affects the other, consult your pediatrician or a counselor as early as possible, even if just to be reassured that your child's behavior and development are within a normal range.
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