Behavioral problems in children and adolescents are often a source of stress for parents, educators, and teachers, and while we haven’t experienced them directly, we know that difficult behaviors and behaviors of children and young people can be a real headache. that behavioral problems can be prevented.
Doing this takes time and effort. However, this commitment can be a valuable investment that not only saves a lot of time in the long run, but also promotes a much happier and mentally healthy family life.
“Educate the children and there will be no need to punish men. “- Pythagoras-
Children and youth may have behavioral problems for a number of reasons. Trying to understand what this child wants or what motivates this behavior is an important step in preventing behavioral problems.
It’s also important to look at the circumstances in which behavioral problems occur, this will allow you to discuss the extent to which you can act on what strengthens them, in all cases, although each child’s needs are different, there are certain measures that can generally help prevent behavioral problems.
Having a healthy relationship with your child or teen makes you more likely to be more motivated to behave well. Children and young people are more likely to follow the rules and behave well if they feel loved and respected.
This healthy relationship necessarily requires the adult to give the child enough positive attention, several times a day, this involves talking to him about all kinds of issues (not just serious issues). Listen to it when you need to talk about your business fun activities and invite it to be part of household chores. The stronger the relationship with the child, the more motivated he or she will be to listen to and follow certain rules.
The best thing is that the rules are not numerous and they are clear and justified, it is not just about behaving well, but creating a value system that gives children advice that serves as a reference, that give them confidence. On the other hand, children need to know clearly what is expected of them with these rules.
In addition, the consequences will be established and explained in advance. In that sense, it is important to be clear and clarify that the consequences are not revenge or something?For misbehaving. They will have other objectives, such as stimulating reflection or repairing the damage caused.
Sometimes what we consider misconduct happens because children don’t know what to do under certain circumstances, so it’s important to analyze what’s wrong with them, is the child nervous?Not sure how to react to a stressful situation?Does the situation outweigh it?
Once the problem is identified, it is important to teach the child to understand and manage his emotions, it is also important to teach him alternative ways of behaving, socially appropriate ways of expressing himself, on the other hand, remember that when children understand his feelings, they are more likely to behave well.
Many children who exhibit poor behavior improve when they have a clear and organized routine that adapts to their needs and opportunities, there will be time to study, time to rest, time to exercise, enough time for meals and free time, as well as sleep time that allows enough rest.
When children incorporate a clear routine to their day-to-day life, they have spaces to take the initiative and enjoy the company of adults who trust them, making it easier for them to behave well.
When a child’s behavior is difficult, the positive things he does may end up being overlooked, however, we have to be careful, strengthen what we like, it will be a way to educate him, give him references and strengthen his self-esteem.
When something positive is done you have to recognize and reward it, it is not about giving material rewards, a smile, a hug, a kiss and / or a verbal recognition will positively reinforce this behavior and give the child an indication that something good has been done.
This technique is not valid for all cases of misbehavior, but it is valid for many, especially those who rely on attracting attention. It consists of ignoring the behavior to be deleted.
When reacting to negative behavior, it is often reinforced because the child wants to get attention, but if he ignores it, the child ends up getting tired.
The problem is that as long as it takes effect, the behavior can get worse, so it’s important to stand firm. In all cases, it needs to be applied carefully and complement this strategy with subsequent measures (e. g. teaching alternative behaviors)
The abuse of mobile technology and video games can generate aggressive behaviors in young people, isolate them from their environment and promote unwanted behaviors, in addition to addictive behaviors in general.
This is a very sensitive subject that should not be left to chance; Parents and educators must take this very seriously. Teaching children and youth to use these technologies in a responsible manner should be part of education to prevent not only behavioral problems, but many others.
Many behavioral problems in children are due to stressful situations: tiredness, overstimulation, overwork and responsibilities, lack of exercise and/or lack of free time are some of the reasons why children are stressed.
Stress in the environment, especially between parents and teachers, also makes children more stressed; In fact, many behavioral problems would be avoided if children grew up in quiet environments, surrounded by adults who knew how to control their impulses and manage their emotions.