Case Studies of Problem Children

"Problem children" contribute to significant stress in parents and teachers alike. During the last 20 years I have worked with over a thousand children and their families. These "problem children" have experienced a range of child problems from the relatively benign to the more extreme. Regardless of the level of concern, child problems are usually the result of multiple interacting factors, including family or learning stress. These, in turn, contribute to significant stress in the child and his/her family and often in the school setting.

The case studies listed below provide a brief overview of some of the child problems I have addressed. They also illustrate how an assessment gets beneath the surface to the "root of the problem". The increased understanding of the child problem that results, including core issues and contributing factors, leads to the solution.

To protect the confidentiality of the child and his/her family all names and identifying information have been changed.

Homework Problems and A Stressed Mother and Daughter: Joan, a successful professional mom, reported that her daughter was experiencing academic and behavior problems. This mom was beside herself and didn’t know what to do. She couldn’t concentrate at work and she felt her job was suffering. (Read more).

Why Can’t My Child Read and Why is He a Behavior Problem? Chris was experiencing problems learning to read. He could not read, write or spell and was also exhibiting behavior problems in school. The school had suggested that Chris might not be particularly bright or capable as a possible reason for his academic difficulties. He was also experiencing behavior problems. At school he usually played with other problem children and was always in trouble. No one knew what the problem was and his mother was extremely upset and worried. (Read more)

Child Learning Problems and Depression in the Family: Mary was experiencing behavior and learning problems at school. She refused to do written work, she was stubborn and her teacher found her difficult to work with. Her mother was extremely worried. She also reported that her daughter was experiencing social problems and often complained that she didn’t have any friends. (Read more)

Behavior Problems at School: Cathy was worried about the behavior problems her son, Jason, exhibited at school. She was extremely upset and the school called her regularly to express their concern about Jason’s behavior. They wanted to place him in a class with other problem children. She couldn’t understand why Jason was behaving this way. She reported that she did not experience any problems with him at home. (Read more)

Learn more about Dr. O'Connor and how she can help with problem children

Copyright 2002 (c) Dianne S. O'Connor, Ed.D. All Rights Reserved.

Dr. O'Connor runs her practice, Assessment Based Solutions, in Toronto (Yonge & St.Clair) and the Hamilton/Niagara region (403 & Rousseau Rd.)

She can be reached at 416-592-0838.

You can also contact Dr. O'Connor by email.