Ever wondered if your child's impulsive behavior or short attention span is just a phase or something more? The key difference between typical behaviors and potential issues comes down to three things: how often it happens, how severe it is, and how long it lasts.
All children show some impulsive behaviors—it's part of growing up. If your child's impulsivity regularly disrupts schoolwork, friendships, or daily routines, it might be worth a closer look.
Things to Think About:
Start a quick behavior journal
Note the date, how long it lasted, and specific details
Look for patterns over time
Key Takeaway: Keeping track in a simple journal can help you tell the difference between that once in a while distracted moments and patterns that might need extra help. This small habit gives you solid information rather than relying on memory of what happened and how often.
Impulsivity: What's Typical?
Dr. Janet Patton
Ever wondered if your child's impulsive behavior or short attention span is just a normal phase or something more? The key difference between typical behaviors and potential issues comes down to three things: how often it happens, how severe it is, and how long it lasts.
All children show some impulsive behaviors—it's part of growing up. If your child's impulsivity regularly disrupts schoolwork, friendships, or daily routines, it might be worth a closer look.
Things to Think About:
Start a quick behavior journal
Note the date, how long it lasted, and specific details
Look for patterns over time
Key Takeaway: Keeping track in a simple journal can help you tell the difference between that once in a while distracted moments and patterns that might need extra help. This small habit gives you solid information rather than relying on memory of what happened and how often.
BelayTM content is for educational purposes and is not a replacement for one-on-one therapy or medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition or replace the relationship with a medical expert. If you are in crisis or have an emergency, please call 911 or the Suicide Crisis Hotline at 988
