Behavior problems for a 5 year old boy

[louise0402]

My son was 19 years old when his son was born.  The mother is out of the picture accept for holidays.  They lived with my husband and I until 8 months ago.  My son, who has done a wonderful job of raising my grandson while going to college, met a wonderful woman with a son.  They moved into her house 8 months ago and were married just 2 months ago.  My son started a teaching job this fall and everything seemed fine.  My grandson was a good child with minor behavior problems.  He whined when he wanted something, still slept with his baby blanket, cried when he didn't get his way, etc.  But now, he is lashing out--angry and defensive about everything that doesn't go his way.  He constantly tells his father that he hates him and wishes he were dead.  This is hurting my son since he doesn't know how to "fix" this.  My daughter in law is a very compasionate person and my grandson seems to really bond with her.  He calls her mom and her son he considers his brother.  But lately these outburst are causing stress in a "new" household.  He also began wetting his pants again.  Time outs, sending him to his room, taking away his blanket, and punsihing doesn't seem to help.  Can this be a typical 5 year old response to a change in his life even though he seemed to be adjusting, or can this be a deeper emotional problem.  Lately, he hasn't wanted to leave our house or me to leave his.  Please advise us on this matter as soon as possible.  This is not my grandson.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Unsettled behavior often accompanies a major family transition such as the one you describe. It would be wise to arrange some supportive counseling for him, even at his young age. As an aside, taking away his blanket is not a good idea.

[louise0402]

Thank you so much for your help.  This was most helpful.