How behavioral issues work
Behavioral issues can begin to show themselves at any age, but it often first presents in childhood and adolescence. Know that it is to be expected that your child may occasionally get into trouble for interrupting class or have a conflict that boils over. The same goes for adults who are occasionally impulsive, negative, manipulative, or angry.
But when patterns form, and the adult or child gets into trouble or conducts themselves in manners that affect their school, work, or social life, then something deeper may be at fault and should be explored with the help of a mental health professional.
Behavioral issues can also worsen with age – even into seniority – so it bears watching a loved one who may have increasing concerns no matter their age.
Most children will grow out of their emotional concerns. However, that is not always the case, and parents should be on the lookout for core symptoms and real warning signs of a deeper-lying issue than the impulsiveness of youth. That’s because regular behavioral issues could be the physical and emotional expression of mental health disturbances such as conduct disorders, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), ADD/ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, or anger issues (such as intermittent explosive disorder).
Symptoms to look out for include:
- Continual aggression or anger
- Regular impulsive tendencies
- Compulsive tendencies
- Often negative
- Nervousness
- Manipulative tendencies
- Disruptive or inappropriate behavior
- Inattention
- Defiance
- Antisocial behavior
If these issues go untreated or are misdiagnosed, you could be facing serious concerns for your child or loved one of any age, as they will most likely lead to diminished learning and even possible reprimand or expulsion. It will also set an adult up for failure in the work field and could lead to substance or alcohol abuse, social dysfunction (at the cost of friends and significant others), poor health (such as obesity), or even hoarding, trouble with the law or suicidal thoughts or actions.
