Child Behavioral Issues


There are many children that suffer from some type of behavioral or emotional issues that result in unwanted behavior.

These children could suffer from autism, ADHD or any type of childhood behavior, but the bottom line is to realize that they are not purposely doing it and gets them help through cognitive behavior therapy, play therapy, talk therapy or art therapy.

Children with behavioral issues need to have some type of therapy that allows them to express themselves without consequences and then slowly build up their level of trust with the counselor. Once this is done the child can begin to learn the reasons for their behavior and what the trigger points are and how to deal with those issues once they arise.

Rule breaking, defiance, and generally “acting out” are some of the defining features of a group of disorders referred to as child and adolescent disruptive behavior problems.

What are Disruptive Behavior Problems?

Children and adolescents with disruptive behavior problems may engage in various behaviors which are deemed to be inappropriate or which negatively impact their environment, such as stealing, arguing, bullying, lying, etc. These behaviors may also impede an adolescent’s or child’s ability to learn or interact successfully in society and/or with peers.

These problems are generally a source of great concern for parents as they often seriously disrupt family life, result in disciplinary problems at school, and even trouble with the police.

The two main types of disruptive behavior disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD), cover several different types of problem behaviors. Although the various treatment recommendations are listed under each of these separate disorders, often these interventions can be successfully implemented to address specific problem behaviors (e.g., aggression, disregard for rules, etc.).

Please contact Family Legacy Counseling at (515) 727-1338 or submit an Appointment Request in the right column to set up an appointment if you believe your child would benefit from this type of therapy.

Source : Eyberg, S. M., Nelson, M. M., & Boggs, S. R. (2008). Evidence-based psychosocial treatments for child and adolescent with disruptive behavior. Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology, 37, 215-237.