3 Key Elements to Understanding Behavior Problems

Behavior problems in adolescents and teens often appear random at first, but they always serve a purpose. Behavioral issues are rarely without a reason. Uncovering the underlying cause—often referred to as the "function" of the behavior—can be challenging, but it's essential for developing an effective intervention strategy.

As a parent or caregiver, taking the time to track and analyze behavioral patterns is a powerful tool in identifying the causes of behavior problems. In my work with families, one of the first steps I recommend is starting a behavior log. This log helps you examine key elements that can shed light on your child's behavior issues. Below are three key areas to focus on when analyzing behavior problems:

1) What Happened Before the Behavior?

To understand behavior problems, it’s crucial to consider what occurred before the incident. This includes the time of day, any setting events, and contextual factors that may have influenced the behavior. For instance, did your child get enough sleep? Did they eat lunch that day? These details help create a picture of the environment surrounding the behavior problem.

It’s also important to look at your own experience. For example, did you get enough rest or eat a proper meal? Emotional states and environmental stressors (like a busy morning or rushing to appointments) can also contribute to how children and teens react. By identifying patterns, you can better understand potential triggers for behavioral issues.

2) What Happened During the Behavioral Incident?

Once you’ve analyzed what occurred before the incident, the next step is to focus on what happened during the behavior problem. Think about what was specifically said or done at the moment of the behavior. Was there a specific action or comment that led to the meltdown, tantrum, or refusal to follow instructions?

Simply stating that your they had a "meltdown" doesn't give enough information. You need to break down what the behavior looked like. Was it physical aggression, withdrawal, or verbal outbursts? Being specific will help clarify the nature of the problem, making it easier to develop a targeted strategy to address it.

3) What Happened After the Behavior?

The final element to consider is what happened after the behavior problem occurred. Pay attention to both your child's response and your own reaction. Did you impose discipline, offer comfort, or simply ignore the behavior? Understanding the aftermath—whether emotional reactions, corrective actions, or follow-up conversations—can give valuable insight into the long-term impact of the behavioral issue and help guide future responses.

Take some time to reflect after the incident when both you and your child are calm. This reflection helps identify strategies to manage similar situations in the future and reduce the occurrence of behavior problems.

Developing a Plan to Address Behavior Problems

The goal of this process is to take a step back and approach the situation with a clear, non-judgmental perspective. Step back, take a breath, and try to clearly piece together why the behavioral incident occurred. By identifying patterns, you can start to form a hypothesis about the function of the behavior and develop a targeted intervention plan.

However, addressing behavior problems takes time and patience. It's normal for this process to require several attempts, especially when the cause is complex. You may uncover signs that indicate mental health concerns or other issues that need professional attention, such as therapy or counseling.

If you’re struggling to manage complex behavior problems on your own, professional support can be invaluable. If you find yourself overwhelmed or in need of guidance, I’m here to help. Contact me today at 608-216-8145 to talk about ways to manage your adolescent’s behavioral concerns.