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Behavioral Issues Specialist

Washington Center for Women's and Children's Wellness (WCWCW) Our Services Behavioral Issues
Washington Center for Women's and Children's Wellness (WCWCW) - - Child, Adolescent, Women’s & Reproductive Psychiatry

Washington Center for Women's and Children's Wellness (WCWCW)

Child, Adolescent, Women’s & Reproductive Psychiatry located in Bethesda, MD and offering Telehealth appointments in Maryland, Virginia, DC, Florida and Michigan

 

 

Behavioral issues like defiant child disorder and ADHD affect millions of Americans, and without intervention and treatment, they can negatively affect your quality of life. At WCWCW, our team of board-certified psychiatrists specialize in the treatment of behavioral issues. To make an appointment at our office in Bethesda, Maryland, call or use the online booking feature today. 

Behavioral Issues Q & A

All Services > Our Specialties > Child & Adolescent Psychiatry > Behavioral Issues

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Conduct Disorder Disruptive Mood Regulation Disorder (DMDD) Behavioral Addiction

What are behavioral issues?

Behavioral issues, or behavioral disorders, are a group of conditions characterized by disruptive conduct that harms yourself or others. Most behavioral issues are diagnosed in childhood or adolescence and require long-term care. If behavioral issues go untreated, they can affect your personal relationships and even prevent you from keeping a job.

Who is at risk of experiencing behavioral issues?

Several factors may increase your risk of experiencing behavioral issues, including:

  • Childhood substance abuse
  • Low self-esteem
  • Parental substance abuse
  • Lack of parental supervision as a child
  • Traumatic events
  • Exposure to toxic substances
  • Lack of emotional attachment to parents

You’re also more likely to experience behavioral issues if you were exposed to drug abuse or other illegal behavior as an adolescent.

What are some common behavioral issues?

Our board-certified psychiatrists at WCWCW specialize in the treatment of various behavioral issues, including:

Oppositional child 

It’s not unusual for children to be rebellious occasionally, but oppositional children try to defy their parents and other authority figures on a regular basis, with frequent outbursts and angry, vindictive behavior.

Conduct disorder 

Conduct disorder is a behavioral issue characterized by antisocial behavior. Telltale signs include bullying or threatening peers, stealing, and starting physical altercations.

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) 

Children and adolescents with DMDD are frequently irritable and angry. They often have outbursts of extreme temper that are disproportionate to the situation, causing ongoing problems at school and home.

Behavioral addiction

Substances aren’t the only thing you can get addicted to. There are also certain activities that can become compulsive or habit-forming, including sex, gambling, and even playing video games. If these activities interfere with your job, personal relationships, or family life, don’t wait for treatment.

How are behavioral issues treated?

At WCWCW, treatment of behavioral issues usually includes a combination of healthy lifestyle changes, counseling, and prescription medication. Following a physical exam, a psychological evaluation, and a review of your medical history, your clinician can develop a custom treatment plan that aligns with your needs.

To learn more about the treatment options for behavioral issues, make an appointment at WCWCW by calling our office or using the online booking tool.