Behavioral disorders during adolescence: How to help our children

Adolescence is a time of change and challenges for young people, but it can also be a difficult time for parents. One of the most common challenges that parents face during this stage is dealing with behavioral disorders that may arise in their children. In this article, we'll explore major behavioral disorders during adolescence, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and conduct disorder, and offer advice on how we can help our children. facing the emergence of these disorders.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, commonly known as ADHD, is one of the most common behavioral disorders in adolescence. Teens with ADHD may have difficulty paying attention, controlling impulses, and regulating their activity level. These difficulties can affect their academic performance, social relationships, and emotional well-being.

To help our children with ADHD, it is important to establish a structured and consistent routine. This may include setting regular times for meals, sleep, and daily activities. It is also helpful to provide a distraction-free environment and set realistic, achievable goals. Additionally, it is important to provide emotional support and encourage our children to seek professional help, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or medication, if necessary.

Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)

Oppositional defiant disorder, also known as ODD, is another behavioral disorder that can emerge during adolescence. Adolescents with ODD often show a persistent pattern of oppositional, defiant, and hostile behavior toward authority figures, such as parents, teachers, or supervisors.

To help our children with ODD, it is important to set clear and consistent limits. This may include setting clear rules and consequences for inappropriate behavior. It is also helpful to encourage open and respectful communication, provide opportunities for our children to express their feelings and concerns, and teach them conflict resolution skills. Additionally, it is important to seek professional support, such as family therapy or behavioral therapy, to help our children develop effective strategies to manage their challenging behavior.

Conduct disorder

Conduct disorder is another behavioral disorder that can arise during adolescence. Adolescents with conduct disorder often show a persistent pattern of aggressive behavior, violation of the rights of others, and lack of empathy. These behaviors can have serious consequences for both the adolescent and those around him.

To help our children with conduct disorder, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Cognitive behavioral therapy may be especially useful in helping adolescents develop problem-solving, empathy, and anger management skills. It is also important to set clear and consistent boundaries, provide appropriate consequences for inappropriate behavior, and encourage open and respectful communication.

How can we help our children when these disorders arise?

In addition to the specific strategies mentioned above for each disorder, there are some general guidelines that we can follow to help our children when faced with the emergence of these behavioral disorders during adolescence:

Create a supportive environment: It is important to provide our children with a safe and supportive environment where they feel heard and understood. This may include encouraging open communication, showing empathy, and providing emotional support.

Seek professional help: If we suspect that our child is experiencing emotional or behavioral difficulties, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. A mental health professional can properly evaluate the situation and recommend appropriate treatment.

Educate ourselves about the disorder: It is important to educate ourselves about the specific disorder our child is facing. This will help us better understand her challenges and needs, and allow us to provide appropriate support.

Promote self-compassion: It is essential to remember that our children are not their disorders. Encouraging self-compassion and self-love will help them develop a positive attitude toward themselves and cope with challenges in a better way.