What Causes Disruptive Behaviour in Children?

According to the research there are many factors which contribute to the risk of developing disruptive behaviours.

The first link in the chain is child temperament (ie. the child’s personality). About 10% of children are born with a difficult temperament.
Other factors that can influence a child’s behaviour are stresses that families are put under such as :

• Separation.


• Financial difficulties.


• Lack of support.


• Parent stress.

What are Disruptive Behaviours?

Disruptive behaviours include:

1. Defiance.


2. Temper tantrums.


3. Restlessness, overactivity.


4. Irritability (quick to fly off the handle)


5. Acting without thinking.


6. Disobedience.


7. Aggressive behaviour towards others.


8. Lying.


9. Stealing.


10. Swearing.


11. Destruction of property.


12. Cruelty to animals.

How do we treat Disruptive Behaviours?

According to the research and our clinical experience, just talking to these children doesn’t help. Studies show that the most effective treatment is when parents are taught specialist skills to manage their child’s behaviour problems.

Where to go for help?

If your child’s behaviour is difficult to manage and they are between the ages of 2 and 11 years, phone the Intake Worker to discuss if our program would be helpful for you.

Phone: (02) 4629-5400

Between 9am and 4pm weekdays, and ask to speak to the Child and Adolescent Intake Worker.

We are a free service providing assessment and treatment of child and adolescent anxiety problems.

Copyright © 2001 Macarthur Health Service Website Administrator: Domenico Santucci