worried mum

Not sure if i can get help on here, i tired the other expert forum but not been able to post the question........My 6 year old son seems to have behaviior issues, for the last 1-2 yrs he has become very angry and seems unable to deal with his feelings, he lies and lies then will cry,scream,shout and make strange noises like a wounded animal. He can be very loving at times forever saying sorry after his outbursts. Today we took him and his sister ice skating and he was enjoying himself however as always his mood changed, he was saying he hated us and was crying and shouting, once he was calm he then stated he hadnt said those things then called me a liar. ive spoken to his school who have said he was never mis behaved for them untill 3 mths ago, he now have a new school and seems to be happy there if anything a little shy. He just seems ready to expolde when he doesnt want to do something and always blames his behaviour on others......there has been a separation with myself and his father over three years ago and his father doesnt really have much contact with him, i wonder if i have caused this by not seeking help for my children. Any advice is welcome or information on where i can go from here ???? thank you for your time.

[Richard B. Graff, PhD, BCBA-D]

It is always difficult to read a short scenario and know exaqctly what is going on, and why.  However, you do provide one clue as to why he may misbehave at times.  You said, "He just seems ready to expolde when he doesnt want to do something".  This suggests that, on occasion, he may emit these behaviors to avoid some unpleasant situation.  There be many other reasons for why he does what he does, but this may be one of them.

If you have not yet done so, talk to your pediatricain, and discuss your concerns.  Ask him or her if they feel your child should be evaluated by someone with expertise in child behavior problems.  It may be helpful to see if there is a board certified behavior analysts in your area (you can find a list of qualified professionals in your area at www.bacb.com), who has experience in working with children who engage in problem behavior.  That person may be able to help identify why your son does what he does, and may be able to help you learn how to deal with his behaviors in ways that may be helpful.

Best of luck!