Does your child display impulsive and defiant behavior? Such reactions may be part of normal emotional reactions to everyday stresses. However, should the behavior persist and become extreme, this could be a telltale for a behavior disorder. This article discusses the most common childhood social disorders, their causes, and treatment approaches.

What is Childhood Social Disorder? 

Behavioral disorders among children involve disruptive behaviors that can last for months, causing social problems in school or at home. However, childhood disorders differ considerably from the typical challenging behavior among children. For instance, it is normal for children to be angry, defiant, and throw tantrums. In a way, such intense emotions may be the only way children can express themselves. In contrast, childhood social disorders require a diagnosis from healthcare professionals. The diagnosis requires severe, persistent, and out-of-norm disruptive behavior. 

Types of Childhood Social Disorders 

The following are the most common behavioral disorders: 

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD manifests itself through inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, or combined types. Children with inattentive ADHD have difficulty being attentive, completing tasks, focusing on tasks for longer periods, and getting distracted quickly. Then, there is the hyperactive-impulsive type, where children find it hard to remain still and wait their turn. Also, they run around and frequently interrupt others. If the child has a combined type of ADHD, they exhibit a mixture of disruptive behaviors. 

Conduct Disorder (CD)

Conduct disorder involves the tendency to violate social rules and the rights of others. Children with CD are often aggressive, and they may indulge in fights, bullying, and animal cruelty. The kids also tend to destroy property and become deceitful. Significantly, the children usually break the rules such as running away from home, skipping school, or stealing. In addition, the kids with CD have difficulty interpreting the behavior of others and feeling empathy. 

Opposition Defiant Disorder (ODD)

The primary behavior among children with ODD is persistent hostility and defiance to authority figures like parents, teachers, and caregivers. However, kids with ODD violate minor rules compared to those with CD. The common signs include irritability and temper tantrums. Then, there are spiteful and vengeful attitudes. Besides, the kids are stubborn, provocative, and constantly questioning rules. 

Causes of Childhood Social Disorders

There is no single cause for childhood social disorders. Instead, disruptive behavior results from a mixture of psychological and social-environmental factors. The following are the significant risk factors for childhood social disorders:

• Changes in brain structure and neurotransmitter levels 
• Pregnancy complications due to toxin exposure 
• Genetic predisposition 
• Psychological trauma 

Treatments Approach to Childhood Social Disorders

Children with behavioral disorders need to see a mental health specialist for diagnosis. The assessment involves observation, behavior checklists, standardized questionnaires, and interviews with caregivers. Based on the diagnosis and the child's need, the health professional develops a management program using one or more approaches. 

Primarily, treatment involves individual or family therapy to impart skills for managing emotions and solving problems. Then, there is parent management training to help caregivers learn practical skills for communicating and setting rules or boundaries for children. Also, school-based and social programs can help kids improve their social skills. Lastly, medication can help alleviate symptoms, especially where children have a coexisting mental health condition.  

If your child shows signs of behavioral disorder, speak with a health professional. Early intervention and appropriate treatment approaches can help manage childhood social disorders and improve behavior over time. 

For more information on a childhood social disorder, contact a professional near you.