Children show variety of emotions and it is reflected in their actions as well. Usually children are very active and hence can get into troubles sometimes. However this should not affect their behaviour on a long term. Some children get behavioural problems which go unnoticed because of general habitat of kids. But you need to be aware of signs and symptoms in their behaviour because that could affect their lifestyle, social skills and cause mental health issues. The cause of behavioural changes can vary according to every individual but signs remain quite prominent. Today we will discuss about some signs and symptoms of abnormal behaviour of kids.
What is Abnormal Behaviour in Kids?
Abnormal behaviours are referred to unusual habits and changes in behaviour of the child apart from what you normally see. It is very difficult to differentiate between abnormal and normal behaviour in children because as they grow their behaviour also changes accordingly. Hence we have classified children behaviour into three categories, preschool behaviour, school kids and teenagers.
1. Pre-school Behaviour
Normal Behaviour- As pre-schoolers it is normal to for children to show tantrums and experience their right to say no to almost anything they wish to. Children of that age are volatile and may be demanding in some area. They try to engage in small temper issues and it is hard for them to control emotions, however it is basic that they can control emotions better than when they were infants.
Abnormal behaviour- it could be unusual for them to behave in an over emotional way and have temper issues which go on for more than a few days. Poor impulse control could be some factors that need to be observed in order to restrain them from doing something stupid and dangerous. Also they may show very aggressive symptoms like hitting other children or not following instruction. These can be signs of abnormal behaviour.
2. Behaviour in school going age
Normal behaviour- This is the age where maximum development happens and they start knowing things and course of actions. Normal children become less impulsive and try to handle things on their own. During this they may have temper issues related to general problems like homework, completing household chores, etc. However the tantrums usually reduce at this stage and they become more mature,
Abnormal behaviour- There could be many conditions at this stage which could be signs of abnormal behaviour. This could include not listening to their parents and teachers. Failing to complete tasks, making excuses every time when something is told to them. Not eating meals or finishing them, having fights with their friends and so on. Abnormal behaviour could also include throwing and breaking things to show their anger.
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3. Teenage behaviour
Normal behaviour- Well normal behaviour for teenagers could be very different from past ages. Since they are exploring a variety of their emotions at this stage, it is normal for them to show anger on different things. They have bit of attitude problems and can get into arguments with parents, friends and other people as well. However this anger can be controlled in a while and then everything gets normal.
Abnormal behaviour- signs of abnormal behaviour in teenage kids can be showing aggression over small problems. Not able to decide about situation and get frustrated often. It can also include impulsive and reactive behaviour which involves getting in fights and arguments just to satisfy their ego. You may also experience ignorance and unresponsiveness to your instructions and tasks.
Symptoms of Abnormal Behaviour in Children
1. Difficulty in Managing emotions- If the children have grown up and still not able to manage their emotions, then it could be a symptom of abnormal behaviour. It could last longer than expected which affects their social skills and ways to behave in public space. This could also lead them into anger, frustration, disappointment and stress. This should not be ignored.
2. Poor Impulse Control- After the age of 6 years, if they still have very impulsive behaviour, then it could be symptoms of behaviour problems. Children that become both aggressive and impulsive can cause serious problems for themselves and people around them. They can take decisions which can affect their health and cause damage to others lives.
3. Indiscipline problems- Indiscipline is regarded as common mistake that children do however there is a limit. If children behave in manner that causes their teachers to take disciplinary action against them, then it could be because of repetitive behaviour problems present in the children. If the child continues to do so, then parents must take them to a doctor or therapist to get them diagnosed. This problem could be opposite to defiant behaviour in children.
Also Read- 7 Tips To Deal With Children Having Defiant Behaviour
4. Trouble with Social Interactions- It might be possible that you kid may be having problems with social interactions and related issues. This is a serious symptom which should not be neglected. Social interaction is a part of development. If he is facing trouble interacting to people and not able to cope up with others, then it could be a serious problem which is related to mental health issue. Children should not have fear of social interaction in usual. It can hamper social relationships and skills for development.
5. Sexualised Behaviour- Sexualised behaviour are not actually appropriate in their age, many teenagers use sexual signs and words often. This should be avoided and it could be a sign of behaviour problems because of some underlying factor. This usually happens when the child has gone through any sexual trauma or has seen sexual abuse of any kind. It is normal to have curiousness but not to have coercive behaviour at any age.
6. Self-Harm- This is one of the most dangerous and vital symptom that your child is going through some serious trauma and problems. Self injury or harm means that person is suffering and thus needs medical attention immediately. This involves cutting themselves, banging their heads, burning themselves or anything that harms their health. Children should be evaluated by a mental health specialist to know and treat the problem.
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