Behavioral Problems-Behavioral Problems in children

Prognosis and Treatment

Any disease that seems to be underlying a child’s failure to thrive is treated. How well the child responds to treatment depends on the specific problem causing the growth failure. If the child isn’t taking in enough food, doctor addresses possible psychologic, social, or economic factor, in addition to any physical factors. Occasionally especially in cases in which on underlying cause is found, intervention by a social services agency or psychologic or psychiatric treatment for the child may be recommended.

Children who fail to thrive, especially during the first year of life an important time for brain growth – may never catch up developmentally or socially with their peers, even though their physical growth may improve. The type and extent of developmental or social and emotional problems or eating problems, such as being picky or slow eaters.

Behavioral Problems

Behavioral problems are behavior patterns so difficult that they threaten normal relationships between the child and others.

Behavioral problems may be the result of the child’s environment, health, inborn temperament, or development. A poor relationship with parent, teacher, and caregivers may also be at the root of a behavioral problem.

To diagnose a behavioral problem, a doctor or therapist interviews the parents and asks for a complete chronologic account of the child’s activities in a typical day. Discussions focus on the circumstances leading to the problem behavior and the details of the behavior itself. The doctor also observes how the child and parent interact. Behavioral problem and tend to worsen with time, and early treatment may help prevent progression. More positive and enjoyable contact between the parent and child can raise the self-esteem of both child and parents. Improved interaction can help break a vicious circle of negative behaviors causing negative responses.