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Behavioral Problems, Pediatric

Ginny L. Gottschalk, MD and William G. Elder, PhD Reviewed 06/2022
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

Behavior that disrupts at least one area of psychosocial functioning. Commonly reported behavioral problems are as follows: 
  • Noncompliance: active or passive refusal to do as requeste...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • Noncompliance: history from caregivers and teachers, if possible; direct observation of child or child–caregiver interaction

    • Criteria: problematic for at least some adults, leading to ...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Educate caregiver about specific behavioral problem.

  • Parent management training programs and techniques are effective for many child behavior problems.

  • Noncompliance: For extre...

ONGOING CARE

DIET

Nutrition is very important in behavioral issues. Avoiding high-sugar foods and caffeine and providing balanced meals have been shown to decrease aggressive and noncompliant behaviors...

REFERENCES

1
Daniels E, Mandleco B, Luthy KE. Assessment, management, and prevention of childhood temper tantrums. J Am Acad Nurse Pract. 2012;24(10):569-573.
2
Bhargava  S. Diagn...

CODES

ICD10

  • F91.9 Conduct disorder, unspecified

  • F91.1 Conduct disorder, childhood-onset type

  • F91.2 Conduct disorder, adolescent-onset type

  • F91.8 Other conduct disorders

  • F98.0 Enuresis not due to a substanc...

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • Well-child visits provide opportunities for screening for these common conditions.

  • Noncompliance: In extreme disobedience, child may need to be screened for ADHD, OCD, ODD, or CD.

  • Self-i...

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