<p> All kids misbehave some times. And some may have temporary behavior problems due to stress. For example, the birth of a sibling, a divorce, or a death in the family may cause a child to act out. Behavior disorders are more serious. They involve a pattern of hostile, aggressive, or disruptive behaviors for more than 6 months. The behavior is also not appropriate for the child's age.</p> <p>Warning signs can include:</p><ul> <li>Harming or threatening themselves, other people or pets</li> <li>Damaging or destroying property </li> <li>Lying or stealing </li> <li>Not doing well in school, skipping school </li> <li>Early smoking, drinking or drug use </li> <li>Early sexual activity </li> <li>Frequent tantrums and arguments </li> <li>Consistent hostility toward authority figures </li> </ul> <p> If you see signs of a problem, ask for help. Poor choices can become habits. Kids who have behavior problems are at higher risk for school failure, <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/childmentalhealth.html">mental health problems</a>, and even <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/suicide.html">suicide</a>. Classes or family therapy may help parents learn to set and enforce limits. Talk therapy and behavior therapy for your child can also help.</p>