Behavioral Problems
Behavioral Problems Families and schools have a wide range of ideas and beliefs about what constitutes a behavior problem and a range of expectations for what level of behavioral compliance is reasonable. Further, our understanding of what "normal behavior" is not well understood. One informal study estimates that average children follow approximately 70% of their parent’s instructions. Is that good, bad, or medium? That depends on the family’s expectations for compliance. Family "A" may think that 70% compliance is fantastic, while family "B" sees it as horrible. The same applies to school systems and teachers. Expectations for behavioral compliance alter the way in which behavior is assessed and interpreted. Behavior problems beyond what is developmentally appropriate (one would hardly expect a toddler or a teen to be completely well behaved) can and should be seen as an indication that something is wrong, that the child or adolescent is in distre...