Consequences

Behavioral Disabilities

Behavioral disabilities in children are also called Emotional Behavioral Disabilities. The definition of a behavioral disability has to do with the kinds of symptoms that are expressed and in what combination. In general, behavioral disabilities are defined by social and emotional behaviors that depart far enough from age appropriate cultural norms that they interfere with the child's academic and social development.

The behaviors must be pervasive and chronic, meaning that it is long-term and affects the child in more than one environment. For example, a child who is acting out in reaction to a life change does not necessarily have a disability, but a child who cannot “settle down” no matter what might have a problem. Many children who are diagnosed with a behavioral disorder may also have a learning disability. Because of their complex nature, behavioral disabilities, then take on many forms from mild to severe, and have a wide range of affects on children, families, schools and society.

A behavioral disability is a kind of developmental disability that occurs in the social/emotional area of development. A child may be extremely intelligent, but unable to get along with his or her peers. The kinds of behavior might be severe anxiety, depression, hyperactivity, shyness, fears, aggressiveness, or social withdrawal.

There are identified kinds of behavioral disabilities like ADHD, Tourette’s Syndrome and depression, but for the most part, it may be the case that the child just departs from the norm in his or her behavior. It is much more difficult to pinpoint a behavioral disability than a physical one since they vary so much in severity and manifestation.

Causes of behavioral disabilities come from a combination of genetic, physiological, environmental, and social factors. There is certainly a genetic link for ADHD, Tourette’s and others. But there are so many other factors that come into play during a child’s development that could result in a behavioral disorder. Physiological factors include brain development or chemical processing, as in the case of depression. Environmental factors include exposure to environmental toxins like lead or solvents. Social factors may include infant neglect or other early emotional traumas.

Every child will have an occasional "bad day", and it is appropriate for young children to have high energy levels. But, if your child is experiencing persistent problems that interrupt his or her participation in school or interaction with other children, or, if your child shows signs of social withdrawal, an inability to focus their attention, or is impulsive and unduly aggressive, there may be a problem. As a general rule, it is time to consult a professional if your child's behavior is age inappropriate, an on-going pattern, and, if it interferes with his or her learning, growth and social development.