What are Behavior challenges for children and teens and how can we help?

Behavior challenges in children and teens refer to patterns of behavior that deviate from what is considered typical or expected for their age and developmental stage. These behaviors can include defiance, oppositionality, disruptive behavior disorders like ADHD or ODD, and difficulties with transitions or accepting boundaries. Such behaviors may interfere with daily functioning, strain relationships, and can hinder a child's ability to reach their full potential.

Here at Milestones, we want to help identify and address behavioral challenges early on and provide families with the proper tools and education needed to navigate behavior challenges. Through evidence based therapy with qualified and highly trained clinicians, at Milestones Psychology, we specialize in addressing a range of behavior challenges seen in children and teens. Our tailored approach is designed to teach healthy ways of managing behavior and interactions, empower patients and their families, and foster positive growth and development. We understand that these challenges can be complex and overwhelming, so addressing early and effectively is crucial for promoting healthy development and well-being!

Common Behavior Challenges

Defiance is a common behavior challenge characterized by resistance to authority or rules. Children and teens may display defiance through refusal to comply with instructions, arguing with adults, or engaging in power struggles. Our clinicians specialize in helping individuals understand and manage defiance, foster healthier communication, and apply conflict-resolution skills.
Disruptive behavior disorders are a pattern of behavioral problems that disrupt children’s daily lives. The lack of cooperation and defiant behavior children display also disrupts the people and activities surrounding them, including peers, family members, classmates, and others around them. Conduct disorder (CD) and Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) are the most common types of disruptive behavior disorders.
Children with transition difficulties tend to have trouble moving between activities, places, and times of day. They may exhibit behavior challenges such as throwing tantrums, showing resistance, or avoiding participating in the transition altogether. Transition difficulties may also manifest as increased stress, anxiety, and difficulty regulating their emotions. Common times when transition difficulties present themselves are getting ready for school, starting homework, and getting ready for bedtime.
This challenge is common for many children. When children won’t accept “no” as an answer, it may point to larger social, emotional, and behavioral challenges that need to be addressed either individually with the child or within the family/household.
Oppositionality is a characteristic of Oppositional Defiant Disorder. Children who display oppositionality tend to act in opposition to rules and many socially acceptable behaviors. They may exhibit patterns of irritability, angry outbursts, argumentative behaviors, and general disobedience, particularly in relation to authority figures.
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a disruptive behavior disorder characterized by frequent and persistent bouts of anger, intense irritability, general argumentative behavior, hostility, and uncooperativeness. Children with ODD may act in vindictive ways towards peers, parents, teachers, family members, and even friends. It is common for children with oppositional defiant disorder to exhibit aggression and at times, act in ways that may purposefully harm others. This behavior challenge is typically diagnosed once children have shown ODD behaviors for a period of at least 6 months.

If your child or teen is struggling with behavior challenges, don't hesitate to reach out. Contact Milestones Psychology today to learn more about our services and how we can support your family on the journey toward positive change.