The Details Related to Behaviour Problems In Children
Identifying the problem is the first step to dealing with behavior problems in children. As an example, a six-month old who spits out food is not a problem- it’s the child’s stage of development. What sort of behavior constitutes a problem? In order to arrive at a reasonable answer, you must ask – “What constitutes normal behavior for a child of this age, personality, physical and emotional level?”
Once the behavior is much different from what is expected for a child of a given age and developmental level, the behavior is a problem. The child’s physical development is relevant as well. Children who are teething often cry and scream inconsolably- what if a 5 year old reacted this way? The latter situation could be an indication of behavior problems in children.
Early interventions stop behavior problems in children
From early infancy, children are learning behaviors which will shape them for life. Don’t wait, and then try to stop an unacceptable behavior that has taken shape. Begin at birth by reinforcing positive behavior. Your approval is needed. Use positive reinforcement from day one. By this method, you will have fewer behavior problems in children.
Watch that you don’t inadvertently reinforce negative behavior. Laughing or smiling following ‘bad’ behavior will be noticed. Often, they will purposefully repeat actions which prompted such a response. Do not let them see you snicker or laugh at negative behavior – even at a very early age – because in doing so, you may actually reinforce behavior problems in children!
Be careful how you do this. Without becoming your child’s best buddy, use your relationship as the supporting authority figure and avoid antagonism in favor of a positive, encouraging interaction. Your child will gain self respect and respect those in authority. The positive parent/child relationship will result in reduced behavior problems in children.
Find an appropriate reward for good behavior. Rewards can be as simple as a smile, a wink, or an encouraging word. Later and greater positive stimuli may appropriately include tasty treats, small monetary rewards, and outings to favorite places. Rewards should be matched to both the child and the situation. Remember to be consistent with positive reinforcement, but avoid spoiling the child. With positive reinforcement and rewards, you will minimize the likelihood of behavior problems in children.
Behavior problems in children: What behavior is age appropriate?
A four month old infant needs to communicate its needs / wants. This means that he/she will tend to be disruptive and self centered. Four month old infants are self centered and disruptive to their parents. This is normal behavior for a four month old. By the age of four years; however, he/she should notice the needs and desires of those around him/her. Adults must do their part with this transition. The truth is that some apparent behavior problems in children are actually behavior problems in adults!
Behavior problems in children – or behavior problems in adults?
That’s right! Many behavior problems in children are the direct result of inadvertent or deliberate misbehavior by adults (and/or older children). If you notice behavior problems in your child, look carefully at the behavior of his/her peers, older children, or adults your child is in contact with. Usually, one or more of them are actually supporting or continuing the misbehavior. Firm and quick action must be taken. Guard your child from the damaging relationship. It is the only way to reduce the behavior problems in children.
When possible, take a cooperative approach to dealing with behavior. Anger and conflict may increase behavior problems in children. At the same time, though, there is a time for firmness. If your child should, for example, show a sudden penchant to chew on extension cords, or to dash into traffic – it is imperative that you immediately bring that behavior to a complete halt.
Do what it takes to keep him/her safe, even if it means inflicting pain. When this happens, reduce the frequency and duration of conflicts, and make sure no harm is done. It is very important to not act while angry. Your judgment is impaired when angry, and the relationship becomes adversarial. Calm down, or allow the other parent to discipline to avoid promoting behavior problems in children.
Avoid hesitating until the behavior problems in children become so advanced that you are forced into action. Begin at the beginning, reinforcing the positive from the first day of each child’s life. By acting proactively, you will greatly reduce behavior problems in children.
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