Childhood Academic and Behavioral Problems

Children acquire many skills as they grow. Some skills, such as controlling urine and stool, depend mainly on the level of maturity of the child's nerves and brain. Others, such as behaving appropriately at home and in school, are the result of a complicated interaction between the child's physical and intellectual development, health, temperament, and relationships with parents and teachers.

Behavior and Emotional Problems

Far more likely than one of the above clinical disorders is that your young child is experiencing a temporary behavioral and/or emotional problem. Many of these pass with time, and require a parent’s patience and understanding.

In some cases, outside counseling is warranted and may be effective in helping children cope with stressors effectively. A professional could help your child learn how to control their anger, how to work through their emotions, and how to communicate their needs more effectively.

Types of Behavioral Problems in Children

1. Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

Typical Signs of ODD Include:

• Often getting angry or losing your temper
• Arguing constantly with adults
• Refusing to comply with rules or requests
• Blaming others for your mistakes
• Appearing resentful

2. Conduct Disorder (CD)

Conduct disorder is a term that encompasses persistent and emotional behaviors exhibited by children and adolescents.

3. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Signs that a child may have ADHD include

• Constantly daydreaming
• Showing signs of forgetfulness or often losing things
• Constantly talking
• Finding it difficult to get along with others
• Having trouble sitting still (fidgeting)

Academic Concerns

Academic concerns, which might include issues such as learning difficulties or disabilities, underachievement, lack of attention from teachers, and bullying, affect a number of students throughout their academic careers, from elementary school to college.

Some typical academic concerns include:

• Learning disabilities
• Lack of proper attention from school officials
• Bullying at school
• Confusion about or misunderstanding of topic(s) of study