Behavior Disorders

Behavior disorders are mental health conditions that involve patterns of oppositional, aggressive, and disruptive behaviors. These children typically have little frustration tolerance and exhibit frequent tantrums and other problematic behaviors which negatively impact themselves and others around them.

There are several types of behavior disorders, including:

• Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD): ODD is characterized by a pattern of negative, hostile, and defiant behaviors towards authority figures. Children with ODD may argue frequently, refuse to follow rules, or lose their temper easily.

• Conduct disorder (CD): CD is a more serious form of ODD that involves aggressive and harmful behaviors towards others or property. Children with CD may bully or threaten others, steal or vandalize property, or engage in dangerous or destructive activities.

Symptoms of Behavior Disorders

• Frequent tantrums or outbursts of anger

• Aggression towards others or property

• Defiance of authority figures

• Difficulty following rules or instructions

• Inattention or hyperactivity

• Impulsivity

• Poor social skills

• Academic difficulties

Treatment of Behavior Disorders

Parent Management Training (PMT) and Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) are two forms of Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) that have been shown to be effective for the treatment of behavior disorders.