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Unidad de PaidopsiquiatríaChild and Adolescent PsychiatryChild and Adolescent PsychologyPediatric clinical psychology
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What are behavioural disorders in childhood and adolescence?

Behavioural disorders in children and adolescents encompass a set of emotional and behavioral difficulties characterized by a persistent pattern of defiant, oppositional or disruptive behaviour, which significantly interferes with daily life.

These problems can affect:

  • Family coexistence
  • School performance
  • Social relationships
  • Emotional and behavioural development

This group includes, among others, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and other more serious behavioural problems.


How behavioural problems manifest

Children with behavioural disorders may present:

  • Frequent arguments with adults or authority figures.
  • Repeated refusal to comply with rules or instructions.
  • Irritability, anger, or frequent emotional outbursts.
  • Provocative or defiant behaviours.
  • Tendency to blame others for their mistakes, becoming defensive.
  • Difficulties accepting limits or social rules.

These behaviours are not isolated episodes of "misbehaviour" but are persistent over time and lead to significant impairment in the child's or adolescent's life.


Difference between normal conduct and behavioural disorder

It is important to differentiate between:

Normal developmental behaviours

During childhood and adolescence, it is common for the following to appear:

  • Occasional rebellion
  • Occasional arguments
  • Search for independence

Those behaviours are usually transient and contextual, and do not globally affect the child's functioning.


Behavioural disorders

In contrast, behavioural disorders are characterized by:

  • Persistence over time
  • High intensity
  • Impact on family, school, and social life.
  • Difficulty adapting to basic rules

Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)

ODD is one of the most frequent disorders within behavioural problems in childhood. It is characterized by a persistent pattern of:

  • Defiant behaviour toward authority figures
  • Frequent irritability
  • Constant arguments
  • Negative or vindictive attitude

Assessment and diagnosis

The diagnosis of behavioural disorders is carried out through a specialized clinical assessment, which includes:

  • Interview with the child or adolescent
  • Information from the family and the school environment
  • Assessment of the functional impact of the symptoms
  • Exploration of possible associated disorders (such as ADHD or anxiety)

A complete assessment by professionals specialized in child and adolescent mental health is fundamental.


Treatment of behavioural disorders

The most effective treatment is the psychological and psychoeducational approach, adapted to each case.

  • Psychological intervention
  • Cognitive-behavioural therapy
  • Training in emotional and social skills
  • Behaviour regulation techniques
  • Intervention in the family environment
  • Work with the family

The role of parents is key. Treatment includes:

  • Behavioural management strategies at home
  • Establishment of clear and consistent limits
  • Reinforcement of positive behaviours
  • Coordination with the school

In many cases, it is necessary to coordinate the intervention with the school environment to favor the adaptation.

  • Pharmacological treatment

In some specific cases, especially when associated disorders exist, pharmacological support may be necessary under specialized medical supervision.


Evolution and prognosis

With early and adequate intervention, many children and adolescents show significant improvement in symptoms and better family, school, and social adaptation.

Early detection and specialized treatment are key factors for the prognosis.

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