Question:

My son is 8 and has recently been diagnosed with ADHD and ODD. He often explodes over silly little things. He was mad about not being able to ride his bike. He kept banging his head on the roof of m car. He chews on my car door and actually has bitten a hole in the interior of my car door. He also chews on his shirts and other clothes all the time. Is this normal behavior for a child of this nature????? I am STUMPED!

THANKS MELISSA

Answer:

O my, Melissa. This is NOT normal for any child and you need help! Who gave him these diagnoses? Ask this person to direct you to a child psychiatrist familiar with psychotropic medications and to a behavior specialist. Or, if your son has been prescribed and is taking medication, inform the physician of his behavior. That could be a problem too.

You don't say what is happening in school with your son. It is not likely that all is sunny there, given the behaviors you describe. School staff may be able to help you by sharing what techniques they use which they find effective, and by letting you know what resources are available in your community and which specialists have good reputations.