Developmental Changes and Behavior Problems in Children: A Brief Review

The importance of early identification of child with a health problem and prompt and adequate treatment is well known to medical practice, nursing care and public health. Failing to diagnose early and treat promptly may often cause severe morbidity and serious lasting complications in later life. Children are immature and developing individuals whose capacities and coping skills change markedly during childhood. Developmental changes in children occur rapidly between 2 to 5 years. Children at this age often engage in aggressive and rebellious behaviors. Behavior problems in children are an important social, educational, and health issue. The prevalence of these problems, their stability over time, their poor prognosis, and their costs to both individuals and the society, all point to the need for primary prevention and early effective interventions. Early identification of and early intervention for children with behavioral problems can help parents better care for their child and the child's siblings, as well as support them in the challenges they face in their community.