Disruptive Behavior Disorders In Children: How To Recognize And Manage Them
- For those experiencing suicidal thoughts, please contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988
- For those experiencing abuse, please contact the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- For those experiencing substance use, please contact SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357
Parents may sometimes feel exasperated by their children’s disorderly behavior since testing boundaries is a common part of growing up. In some cases, though, a child may show a more dramatic and sustained pattern of rule-breaking, defiance, or antisocial actions. This could be a warning sign for a disruptive behavior disorder. Learning to recognize the symptoms could make it easier to get the help you need for yourself and your child.
Disruptive behavior disorders (DBDs) are a group of mental health conditions marked by difficulties with impulse control and following societal norms. They’re often observed first in childhood and can take a variety of forms. These disorders can pose serious difficulties for a child’s long-term success. Still, caregivers can often manage disruptive behavior disorders and teach children better ways of interacting with those around them.
What is a disruptive behavior disorder?
Clinicians recognize several distinct types of DBDs, but they all have certain characteristics. Perhaps the most important feature is a sustained pattern of behavior that goes against accepted rules and norms for interacting with others. Usually, these actions don’t just affect the individual, but also the other people in their homes, classrooms, circle of friends, and other social groups.
In some cases, an individual with this type of disorder may show a pattern of harming others or violating their rights. People with DBDs often receive frequent disciplinary actions and may come into conflict with authority figures of various kinds.
Early signs and risks of untreated disruptive behavior disorders in children
Disruptive patterns of behavior often begin in early childhood or adolescence, even if the condition isn’t diagnosed right away. If they’re not recognized and treated, they can escalate, potentially leading to serious difficulties later in life. Individuals with DBDs that aren’t addressed early may be at increased risk for outcomes such as:
- Problematic substance use
- Poor academic performance
- Difficulties with interpersonal relationships
- Impulsive, reckless behavior
- Risky sexual choices
- Legal problems/incarceration
Types of disruptive behavior disorders in children
Understanding the different categories of disruptive behavior disorder can make them easier to recognize. Specific DBDs include:
Conduct disorder
- Deception
- Theft, ranging from shoplifting to mugging or breaking and entering
- Skipping school or running away from home
- Property destruction
- Aggression or cruelty — this can include threats, bullying, harming animals, and physical or sexual violence
Oppositional defiant disorder
Oppositional Defiant Disorder, or ODD, is the second most diagnosed DBD after conduct disorder. It’s estimated to occur in roughly 2.8% of children. ODD is defined by repeated disobedience, defiance, and antagonism toward authority figures such as parents and teachers.
Unlike conduct disorder, ODD usually doesn’t involve harmful or destructive behavior. Instead, it’s often marked by features like rudeness, tantrums, disobedience, or stubbornness.
Intermittent explosive disorder
Frequent outbursts of anger may be the key feature of intermittent explosive disorder. Though these episodes may include aggression or property destruction, they’re not planned and they’re not part of a larger pattern of antisocial behavior. Instead, they may be provoked by some type of conflict or distress and tend to be brief.
Still, these reactions can be out of proportion to their triggering incidents. They often cause significant difficulty with interpersonal interactions and may lead to frequent disciplinary encounters.
Pyromania
A child who has difficulty resisting the impulse to start fires may be diagnosed with pyromania. To meet the definition of pyromania, fire-starting must be unrelated to ulterior motives like revenge or personal gain. Instead, an individual with pyromania has a fixation on watching things burn and feels significant psychological release or gratification while engaging in this behavior.
Kleptomania
This disorder involves repeated, impulsive thefts. As in pyromania, this behavior is not motivated by financial gain or by any other goal aside from enjoyment or relief of psychological tension. Often, the things stolen have little value or emotional significance to the child.
Ordinary misbehavior vs. disruptive behavior disorders
Some amount of acting out and testing rules may be a normal part of childhood development.
If disruptive behavior is unusually frequent, you may want to consider seeking assistance from a psychologist. If your child is exhibiting disruptive actions far more often than others in their age group, it could be an indicator of a disruptive behavior disorder.
It might be important to pay attention to the severity of negative behavior, too. Researchers studying preschoolers found that low-intensity forms of “acting out” didn’t predict later conduct disorder. Thus, you may not need to worry about your young child having minor temper tantrums or occasionally taking things that don’t belong to them.
Still, more serious issues such as significant property destruction, major deception, and aggression toward people and animals, for example, could be warning signs for a DBD. Inappropriate sexual behavior of any kind is often a red flag.
In the end, even a trained psychiatric professional will likely have to make a judgment call when diagnosing disruptive behavior disorders. Keeping track of your child’s disciplinary record and history of difficult behavior may help you recognize when a concerning pattern is emerging.
How to manage and treat disruptive behavior disorders in children
It’s understandable to be concerned and distressed if your child receives a diagnosis of a disruptive behavior disorder. You might be worried about how their behavior might affect their success later in life. And you may also be wondering how to parent a chronically disruptive child.
With proper intervention and treatment, it’s possible to help children with DBDs learn appropriate behavior patterns. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, around 70% of children with oppositional defiant disorder will no longer meet diagnostic criteria by age 18.
Get training
A 2017 review of evidence-based treatments for DBDs found one of the most helpful methods of helping a child overcome a disruptive behavior disorder to be parent behavior therapy. Also known as behavioral parent training, this approach involves working with therapists to learn specific strategies for correcting your child’s behavior. This coaching can help you become more confident and effective at communicating with your child, encouraging good behavior, and enforcing discipline when necessary.
You can engage in parent behavior therapy in a group with other parents or in individualized sessions with your therapist and your child. The best approach may be a combination of both options.
Be warm but firm
Certain parenting practices appear to be counterproductive, increasing rather than decreasing the odds of disruptive behavior. An authoritarian approach, in which the child receives frequent punishment but little warmth or affection, may lead to more defiance and aggression. It may be better to emphasize your love for your child, praising them when they demonstrate good behavior.
When you do have to impose discipline, it may be important to follow through. If you’re inconsistent with rule-setting or rarely provide consequences for negative behavior, your child could come to view all behavioral restrictions as arbitrary.
Watch for signs of accompanying mental health factors
The symptoms of DBDs may be made more severe by other psychological difficulties. For example, it’s quite common for individuals with ODD to have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as well.
Other accompanying challenges could include depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or even trauma resulting from sexual abuse. It may be a good idea to have your child assessed for these other types of psychological difficulties so that they can receive comprehensive treatment.
Help them learn healthy coping mechanisms
Impulse control and anger management can be major challenges for many children with disruptive behavior disorders. In addition to enforcing behavioral boundaries, you may want to work with your child to help them cope with their tendencies toward aggression or recklessness.
You might consider teaching them techniques such as deep breathing, counting to ten, and thinking through multiple possible responses before speaking. This may be more effective when paired with positive reinforcement such as praise and rewards in response to good behavior.
Don’t neglect your own mental health
Parenting a child with behavioral challenges can be stressful. In addition to parent behavior therapy, you might also want to engage in psychotherapy to support your own mental health so that you can be an effective caregiver. Online therapy can be a good fit for busy parents who find it hard to make time for in-person sessions. Remote therapy removes the need to travel to appointments and may enable more flexible scheduling.
Internet therapy can provide relief for a wide range of mental health difficulties. Researchers examining the clinical research found that online psychotherapy appeared to be just as effective as in-person treatment. They concluded that web-based therapy was a “legitimate therapeutic activity” that could offer substantial benefits for many clients.
Takeaway
Frequently asked questions
What is a disruptive disorder?
Several disorders involve disruptive behaviors and are classified under disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Here are a few of them:
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD):
ODD is characterized by a pattern of angry/irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behavior, or vindictiveness lasting at least six months. Individuals with oppositional defiant disorder display defiant behaviors when interacting with authority figures.
Conduct Disorder (CD):
Conduct Disorder involves persistent antisocial behavior that significantly impairs a person's social, academic, or occupational functioning. It can include aggression toward people or animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness or theft, and serious rule violations.
Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED):
IED is characterized by recurrent episodes of impulsive, aggressive, violent behavior or verbal outbursts disproportionate to the situation. Individuals with IED may have difficulty controlling their anger, leading to destructive and aggressive behaviors.
How are disruptive disorders treated?
Disruptive disorders, such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD), are typically treated using a combination of psychotherapeutic interventions, behavioral strategies, and, in some cases, medication. The specific approach to treatment may vary depending on the severity of the disorder and individual needs. Here are common components of treatment for disruptive disorders:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is often used to help individuals with disruptive disorders identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. It focuses on teaching new coping skills, problem-solving techniques, and strategies for managing anger and frustration.
- Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT): PCIT is a specialized form of therapy that involves both the child and the parent. It focuses on improving the parent-child relationship, enhancing communication, and teaching effective discipline techniques.
- Individual Therapy: For older children and adolescents, individual therapy can be beneficial. It provides a safe space for them to explore and address underlying issues contributing to their disruptive behaviors.
- Behavioral Interventions: Behavioral Modification Techniques: These techniques involve reinforcing positive behaviors and using consequences for negative behaviors. This may include using token systems, reward charts, or other strategies to encourage appropriate behavior.
- Family Therapy: Involving the entire family in therapy can be beneficial, especially when disruptive behaviors impact family dynamics. Family therapy helps improve communication between family members, address conflicts, and strengthen family functioning.
- Social Skills Training: Social skills training helps individuals develop and improve interpersonal skills. This can be particularly important for children and adolescents with disruptive disorders who may struggle with peer relationships.
- School-Based Interventions: Collaboration with schools is essential. Teachers and school counselors can implement behavior management strategies, provide academic support, and work closely with parents to create a consistent approach to addressing disruptive behaviors.
- Medication: Medication may be considered in some cases, especially when disruptive behaviors are severe and co-occur with other conditions. Medications such as stimulants, mood stabilizers, or antipsychotics may be prescribed, but this decision is made on an individual basis.
What causes a disruptive behavior disorder?
Disruptive behavior disorders, such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD), are complex conditions with multifactorial causes. Several factors, often interacting with each other, may contribute to the development of disruptive behavior disorders. These factors include:
Biological Factors:
- Genetics: There is evidence that genetics plays a role in the susceptibility to disruptive behavior disorders. Individuals with a family history of conduct problems or related disorders may be at a higher risk.
- Neurobiological Factors: Differences in brain structure and function, including abnormalities in areas related to impulse control and emotional control, may contribute to disruptive behaviors.
Environmental Factors:
- Family Environment: Chaotic family environments, inconsistent discipline, a lack of parental involvement, and high levels of family conflict can contribute to the development of disruptive behaviors.
- Parenting Style: Authoritarian or permissive parenting styles, characterized by excessive control or lack of structure, may contribute to the risk of disruptive behavior disorders.
- Parent-Child Relationship: A strained or troubled parent-child relationship can play a role. Lack of positive interactions, emotional warmth, and support may contribute to behavioral issues.
- Exposure to Trauma or Abuse: Children who experience physical, emotional, or sexual abuse or witness violence may be at an increased risk of developing disruptive behaviors.
Social and Peer Influences:
- Peer Rejection: Experiencing rejection or social difficulties with peers can contribute to the development of disruptive behaviors, as children may adopt maladaptive behaviors to cope with social challenges.
- Peer Delinquency: Associating with peers engaged in delinquent activities can influence the development and reinforcement of disruptive behaviors.
Individual Factors:
- Temperamental Traits: Certain temperamental traits, such as high levels of impulsivity, aggressiveness, or difficulty controlling emotions, may contribute to the development of disruptive behavior disorders.
- Cognitive Factors: Cognitive deficits, including difficulties in problem-solving, decision-making, or understanding the impact of one's actions, may contribute to disruptive behaviors.
Is ADHD a disruptive behavior disorder?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is not classified as a disruptive behavior disorder. However, it is often associated with disruptive behaviors due to its core symptoms, which include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ADHD is categorized as a neurodevelopmental disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
While ADHD itself is not a disruptive behavior disorder, it can contribute to disruptive behaviors, especially in certain contexts such as school or social settings. Individuals with ADHD may struggle with tasks that require sustained attention, organization, and impulse control. This can manifest as difficulties in following instructions, completing assignments, and maintaining appropriate social behavior.
What are examples of disruptive behavior in students?
Disruptive behavior in students refers to actions that interfere with the learning environment, disrupt the educational process, and negatively impact the overall classroom atmosphere. These behaviors can vary in severity and may be exhibited by students of different ages. Here are some examples of disruptive behavior in students:
- Talking Out of Turn: Constantly interrupting the teacher or peers by talking out of turn can disrupt the lesson flow and make it challenging for others to concentrate.
- Defiance of Authority: Openly challenging or defying the authority of the teacher or school staff, such as refusing to follow instructions, can create a disruptive and aggressive atmosphere.
- Disruptive Noise-Making: Making excessive noise, whether through loud talking, shouting, or other disruptive behaviors, can be distracting to the teacher and other students.
- Frequent Tardiness or Absences: Chronic tardiness or frequent absences can disrupt the continuity of the learning process and impact the student's academic progress.
- Use of Electronic Devices: Inappropriate use of electronic devices, such as texting, playing games, or using social media during class, can distract the students and those around them.
- Bullying or Harassment: Engaging in bullying or harassment, whether verbal or physical, creates a hostile environment and disrupts the emotional well-being of other children.
- Noncompliance with Rules: Refusing to follow classroom rules, not completing assigned tasks, or engaging in behaviors that violate established norms can contribute to a disruptive classroom environment.
What is the most common behavioral disorder?
One of the most common behavioral disorders in childhood is Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically emerges in childhood and can persist into adolescence and adulthood. It is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interferes with daily functioning, school life, and development. Affected children may experience coexisting oppositional defiant disorder or mood disorders such as bipolar disorder. A coexisting mood disorder may make the diagnosis and treatment of behavioral disorders more challenging.
What is disruptive behavior disorder in adults?
In adults, disruptive behavior disorders are characterized by persistent patterns of behaviors that violate the rights of others and societal norms. While these disorders are often associated with childhood and adolescence, some individuals continue to exhibit disruptive behaviors into adulthood. Two main disruptive behavior disorders that may persist into adulthood are Conduct Disorder (CD) and Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD):
Conduct Disorder (CD):
Conduct Disorder is typically diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, but its symptoms can sometimes persist into adulthood. CD is characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates the rights of others or societal norms. Common behaviors associated with CD include aggression toward people or animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness or theft, substance abuse, and serious violations of rules.
Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD):
Antisocial Personality Disorder is a more severe and persistent form of disruptive behavior that typically emerges in late adolescence or early adulthood. It is characterized by a pervasive pattern of disregard for the rights of others, deceitfulness, impulsivity, irritability, aggression, lack of remorse, and a failure to conform to social norms. Individuals with ASPD may engage in criminal activities and may have a history of conduct problems dating back to childhood.
Is disruptive behavior disorder a conduct disorder?
Yes, disruptive behavior disorder is a general term that encompasses a range of disorders characterized by persistent patterns of behaviors that violate the rights of others or societal norms. One specific type of disruptive behavior disorder is Conduct Disorder (CD). So, Conduct Disorder falls under the broader category of disruptive behavior disorders.
Disruptive Behavior Disorder (DBD):
This is an umbrella term used to describe a group of disorders characterized by persistent patterns of behavior that disrupt social, academic, or occupational functioning. It includes conditions such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD).
Conduct Disorder (CD):
CD is a specific type of disruptive behavior disorder characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates the basic rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms. The behaviors associated with CD can include aggression toward people or animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness or theft, and serious violations of rules.
How do I know if my child has a behavioral disorder?
Identifying a behavioral disorder in a child can be complex, as children naturally go through various stages of development, and behaviors can vary widely. However, if you are concerned about your child's behavior, there are certain signs and patterns that may indicate the presence of a behavioral disorder. It may be important to note that a definitive diagnosis should come from a qualified mental health professional. Here are some signs that may suggest the need for further evaluation:
- Persistent and Severe Behavior Problems: With a behavioral or conduct disorder children may experience consistent and severe behavioral problems that persist over time and across different settings (e.g., home, school, social situations).
- Aggressive Behavior: Frequent physical aggression, such as hitting, biting, or fighting with peers, siblings, or adults.
- Defiance and Opposition: Persistent defiance of authority figures, including parents, teachers, and other adults, often characterized by refusal to follow rules or instructions.
- Temper Outbursts: Frequent and intense temper outbursts that are disproportionate to the situation, lasting for an extended period.
- Destructive Behavior: Deliberate destruction of property, either at home or at school.
- Poor Peer Relationships: Difficulty forming and maintaining positive relationships with peers due to aggressive or disruptive behavior.
- Academic Challenges: Consistent academic difficulties, disruptive behavior in the classroom, or refusal to participate in academic activities.
- Difficulty Following Rules: Consistent failure to adhere to rules and difficulty understanding the consequences of actions.
- Lack of Empathy: Lack of empathy or concern for the feelings of others, and a failure to show remorse or guilt after misbehavior.
Is disruptive behavior disorder, such as conduct disorder, curable?
Disruptive behavior disorders, such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD), are typically considered chronic conditions that may persist into adolescence and adulthood. Adults and children diagnosed with these disorders may not be "cured" in the traditional sense, they can often be effectively managed with appropriate interventions and support. Treatment for disruptive behavior disorders often involves a combination of therapeutic approaches, behavioral interventions, and, in some cases, medication.
- Previous Article
- Next Article