To begin with, there are many types of behavior disorder, thus I would like to focus only on disorders, which usually appear in childhood and adolescence.
Behavior disorders are conditions that are more than just disruptive behavior. They are related to mental health problems that lead to disruptive behavior, emotional and social problems. A young person is said to have a behaviour disorder when he or she demonstrates behaviour that is noticeably different from that expected in the school or community.Like learning disabilities, behaviour disorders are hard to diagnose. There are no physical symptoms or discrepancies in the body that are observable or measurable. Behaviour disorders are therefore identified by observing behaviour patterns in the child over a period of time. If a child displays some of the following behaviours he may be labeled with a behaviour disorder:
1. Aggression to people and animals. Some people may say that the child is wicked to others and cruel to animals.2. Destruction of property- defacing school desks, graffiti, vandalism, etc.3. Little empathy and concern for others. Shows no feelings when another is in pain, nor remorse for unkind deeds.4. Takes no responsibility for behaviour. Also lies, cheats and steals easily.
In addition to these general symptoms of a behaviour disorder, there are other symptoms characteristic of more specific behaviour disorders such as ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Obsessive/Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar disorder and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder). I would like to rewiev some of them:
The Obsessive/Compulsive Disorder is demonstrated by repeated and persistent thought or impulses that are unwanted and cause severe discomfort in the person. For example, a child may constantly imagine that there are monsters lurking everywhere. The behaviour is compulsive when it is repeated persistently without satisfaction, e.g. counting numbers, washing hands all the time.
ADHD- this is the classic inattentive, can’t-sit-still behaviours. The attention span is very short and the behaviour is impulsive at times. The child also seems quite distracted and forgetful.
Behaviour disorders come from brain injury, child abuse, trauma, etc. There have also been indications that it could be a genetic disorder. The behaviour therefore is an involuntary response to these experiences and the child should not be blamed for his behaviour. A child with a behaviour disorder will feel bad about himself and that low self-esteem will be further worsened by the adults around him who do not treat his condition with understanding and willingness to help. Too often the child is blamed for his unacceptable behaviour and instead of being supported to deal with it he is castigated and alienated. There is, therefore, a thin line between behvaiour disorder, emotional disorders and learning disabilities.
In conclusion, in my view it is important to know that behaviour disorders are best dealt with by behaviour therapy and psychotherapy. It is also important in trying to modify the behaviour to be clear about what is the behaviour you are expecting. For example, expecting a three year old to sit quietly through a long church service may not be reasonable.
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