Condition

Behavioral Illnesses of Childhood

The three most common types of behavior illnesses are attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder (CD).

About

It is normal for your child or teen to sometimes misbehave, not listen, talk back or act rebellious. These behaviors are part of the normal process of growing up. However, some children and teens start to show more difficult, dangerous or disruptive behaviors that don't get better or go away with time. These behaviors can affect their home life, school performance, friendships and safety. They can cause problems for youth as they grow into adults.

Symptoms

Some of the signs of childhood behavioral illnesses may be:

Problems paying attention or completing daily tasks
Irritable mood, argumentative most of the time
Breaks rules without a known reason
Difficulty slowing down, no "off" button (hyperactive)
Acts without thinking (impulsive)
Acting out, fighting, bullying or cruel behavior towards people or animals (aggressive)
Self-harming (cutting, burning)
Not interacting socially with others (withdrawal)
Skipping school
Excessive or inappropriate crying, poor coping skills
Temper tantrums
Learning difficulties (performing below grade level)
Alcohol or drug use (with other signs above)

Treatment

A mental health provider can help properly diagnose and treat a behavioral disorder. Treatment may include talk therapy, medications, coordination with school and connecting with community resources.

Our Doctors

At Children's Wisconsin, our doctors are 100% committed to the health and well-being of kids. They care for every aspect of a child's health, including their physical, social, dental and mental well-being. We are a community of dedicated professionals who shares an unwavering passion to care for kids whenever and wherever they need us.

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