All children misbehave. However, if you notice a change in your child’s behavior or are seeing your child seems to be less obedient and happy than other children your child may have underlying problems a Child Counseling Oklahoma City OK assessment can help you identify. There are a number of factors that can affect a child’s behavior.
Learning Disabilities
One of the most common causes of behavioral issues stems from challenges with learning. When a child is struggling with their school work it can lead to frustration which can then be noticed by them acting out. If you see your child has suddenly changed their behavior speak to your teacher and ask about their performance in class. You can also have your child read with you and see if they seem to be struggling. Once a learning disability is identified your child will be given special opportunities to allow them to excel and this usually can help them feel more confident and improve their attitude.
Your Behavior
A parent never likes to hear this; however your behavior can have a huge impact on how your child behaves. It can be issues with your spouse that is causing stress in the home, inappropriate behavior such as substance abuse or even anger management issues. Your child learns behaviors very easily from how you behave. You may even be sending conflicting messages such as telling them not to swear and than cursing yourself, telling them not to smoke and then smoking and telling them not to yell and than constantly shouting at them or your spouse. Check your own behavior and see if you are having a negative influence on them.
Diet and Medication
There are many food sensitivities and medications that can affect your child’s behavior. Consider what your child has eaten if they are behaving particularly badly and also note if their behavior has changed since starting a new medication. Speak to your doctor if you are concerned it is related to food or medicine.
Health Conditions
Health conditions from sight and hearing impairments to psychological disorders can affect your child’s behavior as well. If medical issues are not the cause the child counseling Oklahoma City OK parents seek can help identify anxiety and behavioral disorders.
