Many children who have to live with a kinship care provider have had to deal with a significant amount of tragedy, abuse, and neglect in their lives. Although some children can cope with their pasts well, and be able to function normally, other children may not know how to cope, and they may demonstrate behavioral problems as a way of expressing their unhappiness. Other children may demonstrate behavioral problems due to an emotional or cognitive disorder that they have, through no fault of their own. Regardless of the reason behind the negative behaviors, it is important to recognize the more common behavioral problems, which will aid kinship caregivers in seeking help early.

Common Emotional and Cognitive Disorders:

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder): ADHD has two components: inattention and hyperactivity. Inattention is when the child has difficulty listening, and following through with instructions, ongoing tasks, and activities. Here, a child is also easily distracted. Hyperactivity is when the child is unable to sit still and remain quiet, for long periods of time. The child can be fidgety, talkative, constantly touching things, etc.

Conduct Disorder: A repetitive and persistent pattern of behaviors, which violates the rights of others. Examples of negative behaviors that children may demonstrate are:

Aggression
Destruction of Property
Violation of Rules
Lying and Manipulation

Reactive Attachment Disorder: Child persistently fails to initiate and respond to most social interactions, in a developmentally appropriate manner.

Separation Anxiety Disorder: Excessive anxiety concerning separation from home, or from individuals with whom the child is attached.

For additional information regarding these disorders, it may be helpful to consult the Internet Mental Health website, which can be found at www.mentalhealth.com.

Common Behavioral Problems:

Aggression: The child demonstrates pushy and/or hostile actions. The child may lash out at another person verbally or physically.

Enuresis:The inability of children to control their bladder; bedwetting.

Encopresis: The inability of children to control their bowel; defecate on one’s self.

For additional information regarding physical aggression in children, please consult the National Network for Childcare website at www.nncc.org.

For additional information regarding enuresis or encopresis, please consult the Soiling Solutions website at www.encopresis.com.

On This Page:
Common Emotional and Cognitive Discorders
Common Behavior Problems