Disruptive Behavior Disorder, or DBD, is a term used to describe children and teens who exhibit disruptive behaviors that go beyond the norm of typical adolescent rebellion. Though studies are finding that more and more teens with DBD suffer from neurologically related symptoms, the primary identifier is almost always related to behavior. While many of the behavior issues present in DBD can be present in otherwise “normal” teens, these issues in a teen with DBD can result in clinical impairments of academic, occupational and social functioning. Parents will need an arsenal of strategies to cope with DBD. Effective diagnosis and treatment are the first and most important steps to take as most disruptive behavior disorders are accompanied by other issues such and mood, anxiety and attention deficit disorders. It is also very important to learn the warning signs of DBD and have resources readily available to cope with the many issues that arise in DBD.
Warning Signs of DBD
The following signs can be exhibited in all teens at one point or another. It is when six or more these signs remain present for an extended period of time that it’s possible the teen could be suffering from DBD and should be evaluated by a mental health physician.
• Drop in grades
• Extreme mood swings that are unprovoked are not fitting of the situation
• Intense sadness
• Volatile temper
• Sudden loss of interest in activities the teen once enjoyed
• Sudden change in friends or deliberate disinterest in friendships
• Failure to comply with limits and rules
• Suddenly becomes secretive and defensive when questioned
• Develops a need to avoid consequences and begins lying
• Finds the distress of other humorous
• Experimentation with drugs and alcohol
• Spending an inordinate amount of time alone or sleeping
• Open displays of rebellion and more defiant and surly attitude.
5 Great Resources for Parents Struggling With Disruptive Teens
If you are struggling with a disruptive teen, you are not alone. Following are five resources that can provide you with a wealth of information and assistance in dealing with DBD.
1. NAMI.org – The National Alliance of Mental Illness is a grassroots organization developed to provide support for individuals with mental illness and their families. There are affiliates in all 50 states and in more than 1,000 communities. NAMI provides mental health support, advocacy and education.
2. Project Safe Place – Provides immediate help and resources to young people in crisis. They have a network of trained volunteers, qualified agencies and businesses in 32 states. Their phone number is 1-888-290-7233
3. School Violence Prevention Initiative – This government funded site offers tips on dealing with anger, conflict management and how to deal with bullies.
4. American Association of Psychiatric Services for Children – The Child Welfare League of America operates a network of agencies, both public and private, that are tasked with developing and promoting policies and practices that will result in better outcomes for children, teens and families in vulnerable situations.
5. Suicidemethods.net – Helps educate people about depression and provides unbiased resources on alternatives as well as methods to suicide. Books, videos and images portray the medical consequences of suicide as well as provide both religious and social based ideals to individuals contemplating suicide.
Author Bio
Angela Prickett provided this article along with co-writer Stanley Martinson. Angela is a freelance writer and photographer. She enjoys skiing and rock climbing in her spare time.












