Severe behavioural problems
Managing Severe Behavioural Problems
Severe behavioural problems can be tough to manage and require a long-term effort to address the root causes. The extent and severity of the problem will depend on the individual’s background and current environment. It's important to remember that children and adolescents can have severe behaviour problems due to a variety of factors and, unfortunately, these issues can have longterm impacts.
It's tricky to find the right treatment for each child, but there are a few tools and techniques that you can use to help address severe behavioural problems.
1. Establish a Routine
Though it can be difficult to adhere to a routine when dealing with behavioural issues, consistency can actually be beneficial for the child. Predictability and consistency can help to reduce anxiety and help to bring some stability into their life.
Some practical things you can do to implement a routine would be to:
- Set a schedule for meals, bedtime, waking up and any activities
- Encourage the child to stick to the same after school activities
- Consistently praise and reward good behaviour
- Plan out rewards and consequences for behaviour
- Stick to the same discipline approach
2. Identify the Triggers
Identifying triggers can be a difficult yet essential task in managing severe behavioural problems. It's necessary to pay attention to the behaviours and circumstances that spur these reactions. Gaining an understanding of what causes these outbursts can help you to make an informed decision on how to help the child better manage these emotions.
Once you’ve identified the triggers, then you can start tailoring your approach to address the issue. For example, some potential strategies may include:
- Creating a system to distract from the triggers if possible
- Encouraging the child to take part in relaxation techniques or deep breathing exercises
- Practising problem-solving activities to prevent similar situations from occurring
3. Seek Professional Help
Severe behavioural problems can be difficult to manage solely with a “home remedy” approach. For some children, professional help and intervention from a psychologist or behaviour therapist is recommended. A good therapist or psychologist can provide an assessment of the reasons which are causing the child’s behaviour, as well as assess the best course of treatment.
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help a child better manage certain symptoms. Parents need to be aware of the potential side effects and they must be consulted before any medication prescription.
Conclusion
Severe behavioural problems require an tailored approach with an understanding of the individual and his/her circumstances. With consistency and the right approach, it's possible to address these issues and help the child develop healthier coping methods.