Is Your Child "Acting Out"? It Could Hint At Something Deeper

Your child has been acting out, and you can’t quite figure out why. Perhaps they’ve been throwing tantrums over small things that never bothered them before. Maybe it seems like they’ve been talking back more often.

Or maybe you’ve heard from their teachers or friends’ parents about their behavior, and you’re deeply concerned about how they’re acting outside of the household.

Originally, you might have thought that they were acting out for attention. Yet that doesn’t fit with your child’s personality. You suspect that something deeper is going on. Children can act out for many reasons, and sometimes, it can be hard to identify the root cause of the behavior.

Negative Self-Image

Many young people have trouble cultivating a positive self-image. This is not their fault - society places lots of pressure on everyone, even young people, to live up to certain standards that are often unrealistic.

Furthermore, kids may compare themselves with their own peers and worry that they just don’t measure up. And sadly, this can start at a young age. Many parents are aware that teenagers struggle with poor self-image and low self-esteem, but this problem can affect young children, too. This can spark outbursts and angry behavior.

Questioning Their Identity

Sometimes, a child who is questioning an important aspect of their identity might act out because they don’t know how to navigate this process. They might be dealing with a wide range of complicated emotions, and they’re not sure of how to express themselves in a healthy way.

For instance, your child may be asking themselves questions about their gender or sexual orientation, and they may not feel quite ready to bring it up to you or another adult they trust yet.

Trouble With Friends

Your child might be going through some problems with their friends at school. Maybe they feel like they’re being left out of their peer group, and being lonely and isolated is taking a toll.

If you have recently moved and they’re settling in at a new school, they might feel like an outsider. There could also be a chance that your child is dealing with bullying at school. This can be a traumatic experience for a child. Having to face bullies day in and day out can push your child to act out.

Struggling in School

Have you checked in on your child’s grades recently? If your child is having trouble with their schoolwork, they might feel scared to ask for help. They might even feel ashamed or worried that they will get in trouble for bringing home less-than-stellar grades.

Additionally, they might be nervous about their teacher getting in touch with you. Because of the stress they’re experiencing at school, they might act out.

Major Life Changes

It’s important to remember that children are not immune to stress from major life changes. If you and your child’s other parent have recently gone through a divorce or separation, your child might be struggling to deal with the adjustment.

Maybe you or your partner has just lost a job. Your child could be picking up on your stress levels and feels guilty for their own needs. Have you suffered from a loss in your family? Your child might be grieving too. A big life change can be disruptive for children and adults alike, and it can easily prompt kids to act out.

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Are you concerned about your child’s wellbeing because of behavioral changes? Child counseling can help. Reach out to us today to discuss your options for scheduling their first session.