Challenging Behaviors in Children

Children’s behaviors are often a reflection of something they would like to communicate or how they are feeling inside. For example, sometimes when children are aggressive they are really sad and have a hard time communicating that to the adults who love them. Their aggression may also be a signal that they are scared and really need comfort, yet they continue to push those who could help away.

The good news is that there is help for children who have challenging behaviors. When the families enlist the help of a mental health professional they can start to develop coping skills and practice the ability to truly state how they are feeling. This process may entail both individual and family therapy, so everyone is on the same page and can learn new ideas together.

Challenging behaviors are just ways that children communicate, especially when they do not have the verbal capacity to explain how they are feeling. Different modalities such as using play in therapy, parent coaching during therapy, and using art are ways that a child can truly communicate their feelings. This, in turn, may help reduce the challenging behaviors and build a strong connection with everyone in the family.