How your pediatricians in Vancouver, and Longview, WA, can help with behavioral problems
Raising children can be complicated, especially regarding childhood behavior. Occasional acting out and defiance are normal and can be signs of your child demonstrating independence and testing boundaries. So, how can you know when your child might have a behavioral problem? Your pediatrician can help you find out.
The pediatricians at Child & Adolescent Clinic offer a wide range of medical services for children, including screening and treatment of behavioral disorders. They have two convenient office locations in Vancouver, and Longview, WA.
To help you learn the facts about behavioral problems, these are just a few frequently asked questions about childhood behavior:
What Are Normal Childhood Behaviors?
- Defiant behavior–which could be normal boundary testing
- Withdrawing from you–which could be your child just showing autonomy
- Acting out–which could be your child’s normal response to major changes including moving to a new place, problems at school, divorce, or the death of a family member
When Should I Be Worried About a Behavioral Problem?
There are some early warning signs for you to pay attention to, including if your child is:
- Harming or threatening themselves, other children, or pets
- Having trouble with relationships with teachers and other children
- Generally depressed and unhappy
- Generally anxious about school or relationships
- Willfully damaging or destroying other people’s things
- Lying, frequently arguing, or stealing
- Showing hostility and defiance toward authority figures
- Doing poorly in school or skipping school
- Smoking and drinking, or using drugs
What Are Some Common Behavioral Problems in Children?
Some of the most common conditions affecting children include:
- ADHD
- Learning disabilities
- Developmental delays
- Depression and anxiety
How Can a Pediatrician Help?
Behavioral and developmental assessments typically occur at your child’s well-visit appointments. If you are concerned about your child being affected by a developmental or behavioral disorder, your pediatrician can perform screening and assessment.
How Are Behavioral and Developmental Disorders Treated?
Treatment for behavioral and developmental disorders utilizes several treatment methods, including medication therapy, and individual and family counseling.
To learn more about the signs, symptoms, and treatment of behavioral problems, call the pediatricians at Child & Adolescent Clinic. You can reach them in the Vancouver, WA, office by calling (360) 254-7750, or in Longview, WA, by calling (360) 577-1771, so call today.