Behavioral Disorders

What are Behavior Disorders?

Behavior disorders can have a significant impact on the brain. They can affect the way the brain processes information, leading difficulties with attention, memory, and decision-making. In some cases behavior disorders can also cause changes in brain structure and function, which can further exacerbate symptoms. However, with proper treatment and support, many individuals with behavior disorders can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

Signs and Symptoms of Behavior Disorders

Behavior disorders can manifest in a variety of ways, but some common signs and symptoms include aggression, impulsivity, hyperactivity, defiance, and difficulty with social interactions. It's important to note that each individual may exhibit different behaviors.

Conduct disorder is a mental health condition that affects children and teenagers. Symptoms may include aggression towards people or animals, destruction of property, theft, lying, and violation of rules.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a behavioral disorder that is characterized by a persistent pattern disobedient, hostile, and defiant behavior authority figures. Some common signs of ODD include frequent temper tantrums, arguing with adults, refusing to comply with rules, deliberately annoying others, and blaming others for their mistakes.

What causes Behavior Disorders?

Behavior disorders can have various causes, including genetic factors, environmental factors, and chemistry imbalances. Trauma, abuse, neglect, and other adverse childhood experiences can also contribute to the development of behavior disorders.

Environmental factors that can affect behavior disorders include exposure to toxins, malnutrition, neglect, abuse, and trauma. These factors can affect brain development and lead to behavioral issues such as aggression, anxiety, and depression. It's important address these factors and seek professional help if necessary to improve mental health and wellbeing.

How to treat Behavior Disoders?

Behavioral therapies are commonly used to treat behavior disorders. These therapies include cognitive-behavioral therapy, applied behavior analysis, and dialectical therapy. Each therapy focuses on different aspects of behavior and can be tailored to meet the individual needs the patient.

Accelerated Resolution Therapy is a common therapy for treating behavior disorders that stem from traumatic experiences. It's similar to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which helps individuals process traumatic memories and reduce negative emotions associated with them. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is also used to treat behavior disorders by teaching individuals coping skills to manage intense emotions and improve relationships.

Behavior Disorders are difficult to experience as a parent. At Ascend, we are here to offer ongoing treatment and support toward increased healing and resolution of behavior disorder symptoms.