This event explained some of the most common underlying causes of behavioral disorders in children and strategies to help these children function in their daily lives. In many cases, the social and emotional expectations are higher than the child’s ability. For example: reports show a 50 to 75% co-occurrence rate of speech, language, and communication disorders in children with behavioral disorders; over the last decade.

When children know what they want to say but are unable to express it, they exhibit behaviors such as frustration, aggression, and defiance. These children often become categorized as “emotionally disturbed” or labeled as “special ed” resulting in low self esteem, depression, and aggression. The SLP’s role is to establish/enhance language and communicative competence while promoting development of successful relationships with adults and peers.

The use of medication is not uncommon due to the occurrence of ADD and ADHD. Some of the most common medications used include Ritalin and Strattera. Medication treatment is very successful as long as it is administered consistently. Medication treatment paired with self regulation/self control strategies can often help children with behavior disorders cope with the many different situations they may face on a daily basis.