How to know if a 7 year old has potential for violence

[amberd3]

I have known this child since he was 4. Around age 3 his behaior problems started. at age 4 he was an obvious hyper child. He does not throw temper tantrums just very difficult to get him to settle and focus. He was actually kicked out of one preschool, had many problems at a private school. He has been kicked off of the school bus for hitting. He is often in trouble at his current school as well. He is very bright but here are my concerns.

He has had seziures since age 4, night terrors, on medication for adhd. He can not sit still, he and a neighbor kid at age 5 were found hitting his dog with a metal rod. He recently drew a picture and when asked what it was, it was a picture of himself with devil horns stabbing a person with a knife. He said the voices told him to draw it. Also at age 5 he was found holding a rope around his 2 year old brothers neck. His parents react to his behavior with spankings and yelling, he often says he is worthless. or not good enough. He has an obvious problem making friends. His parents are currently seperated. I have 2 daughters ages 8 and 6 and was thinking of spending time with this boy and his little brother.

My question is are these signs of a serious mental condition? Does he have potential for worse violence? Should I be concerned for their safety?

[margypops]

As he is on Meds it would be good to ask his Doctor if the meds could cause any of the behaviors you describe..Good luck

[amberd3]

Thank you for your reply

Yes my oldest went to the preschool with him and is a very kind compassionate girl. She played with him breifly at the Boys and Girls Club and tried to keep an eye out for him until she was able to be at my place of work when she turned 8. I am friends with his dad and thought some play dates would be good for the child. I know when he told other people about the drawing they were concerned that this is how serial killers start out. I have not been to questioning with his behavior like the question if he was the leader or follower (Good Question). I have always felt bad for him, raised in daycare and not much motherly nurturing at an early age. I think she is trying now but...

I think my main concern is are these signs for potential voilent nature to worsen.

[RockRose]

Amberd,  it's kind and caring of you to want to spend time with him.

It's not clear how violent he really is - boys in pairs or threes often do things they would never do on their own - the other boy may well have been the leader.  

Do your daughters want to spend time with the boys?  If they have fun as a group on group outings,  I say go for it but make sure you watch him pretty closely.  

Best wishes.