Parents may seek mental health counseling and therapy for a variety of disruptive behaviors in their children. Here are some of the most common behaviors that parents seek help for:

1. Aggressive behavior: Children who are aggressive may exhibit physical violence, verbal aggression, or other behaviors that are intended to harm others. This can include hitting, biting, pushing, or other forms of physical aggression, as well as name-calling, insults, or other verbal attacks. Aggressive behavior can be disruptive and can make it difficult for children to build positive relationships with peers and adults.
2. Anxiety: Anxiety can manifest in a variety of ways, including excessive worry, nervousness, and fear. Children with anxiety may have difficulty coping with everyday situations, may avoid social activities or school, and may experience physical symptoms such as stomach aches or headaches. Anxiety can be a disruptive behavior if it interferes with a child’s ability to function in their daily life.
3. Depression: Depression can cause a child to feel sad, hopeless, and unmotivated. They may withdraw from social activities and lose interest in hobbies they once enjoyed. Depression can be a disruptive behavior if it affects a child’s ability to function at home or at school.
4. Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD): Children with ODD may exhibit behaviors such as arguing with adults, refusing to comply with rules or requests, and deliberately annoying others. This behavior can cause conflict and disruption in the home or classroom.
5. Self-harm: Self-harm can take many forms, including cutting, burning, or other forms of self-injury. Children who engage in self-harm may be struggling with underlying emotional issues such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. This behavior can be highly disruptive and may require urgent attention from mental health professionals.
6. Substance abuse: Substance abuse can include the use of drugs, alcohol, or other substances that can lead to addiction and other serious problems. Children who engage in substance abuse may exhibit disruptive behavior such as stealing, lying, or other criminal activity in order to obtain drugs or alcohol.
7. Eating disorders: Eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia can cause a child to have an unhealthy relationship with food and their body. Children with eating disorders may exhibit disruptive behavior such as obsessive weighing or measuring of food, hiding food or purging after eating, and may become socially isolated.
8. ADHD: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can cause disruptive behavior such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and difficulty focusing. Children with ADHD may struggle in school or with other activities that require sustained attention.
9. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): OCD is characterized by intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors or rituals that a child feels compelled to perform. These behaviors can be disruptive and may interfere with a child’s ability to complete everyday tasks.
10. Trauma: Children who have experienced trauma may exhibit disruptive behavior such as emotional outbursts, avoidance of certain people or situations, and difficulty trusting others. Trauma can have a profound impact on a child’s mental health and well-being, and may require professional intervention.

Parents who are concerned about their child’s behavior should seek the advice of a mental health professional. A therapist or counselor can work with the child and their family to identify the underlying causes of disruptive behavior and develop strategies to address these issues. With the right treatment and support, many children with disruptive behavior can learn to manage their symptoms and build healthy relationships with peers and adults.

Lifeworksaz.com has been working with children and teens and parents for over 18 years helping youth with: behavioral and emotional disorders.