Deviant or deviant behavior is actions that do not comply with generally accepted norms in a particular society or social group. This is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that can take various forms: from minor violations of order to serious crimes. Both adults and children can differ in this behavior.
In this article, we'll discuss deviant behavior in more detail.
What is deviant behavior: defining basic concepts
The main characteristics of deviant behavior are:
Violation of regulations
Deviant behavior is always associated with a violation of any rules, be it moral norms or etiquette.
Negative assessment
Deviant behavior is negatively assessed by society or social group.
Social consequences
Deviant behavior can have negative social consequences, such as condemnation, isolation, punishment, and even incarceration.
It is important to distinguish between deviant behavior and individual personality traits. Not every deviation from generally accepted norms can be considered deviant. For example, an eccentric dress style or unusual hobbies are not always a sign of deviance.
Reasons for deviant behavior
Biological factors
Some researchers believe that the predisposition to deviant behavior may be due to genetic factors, brain function or disorders in the endocrine system.
Psychological factors
Deviant behavior can be associated with personality traits, such as impulsiveness, aggressiveness, low self-esteem, as well as mental disorders: depression or personality disorder.
Social factors
Deviant behavior is often the result of adverse effects of the social environment.
Dysfunctional family
A lack of love and support in the family can contribute to the development of deviant behavior in children and adolescents.
Negative influence of peers
Talking to deviant peers, participating in criminal groups, or being bullied can lead to violations of norms.
Socio-economic problems
Poverty, unemployment, and lack of opportunities for self-realization can lead to frustration, despair and deviant behavior.
Deficiencies in the education system
Ineffective parenting methods, lack of attention to the child's individual needs, bullying at school can contribute to the development of deviant behavior.
What to do if you experience deviant behavior in your child
Record specific manifestations
Explain clearly what the deviant behavior is. What actions does the child do? In what situations does this happen? How often?
Identify possible causes
Try to understand what can provoke this behavior: problems in the family, school, with friends, with your inner state.
Eliminate medical causes
In some cases, deviant behavior may be due to neurological or psychiatric disorders. Consultation with a pediatrician or child psychologist will help eliminate such options.
Set clear rules and boundaries
The child must understand what is acceptable and what is not. The rules must be consistent and applied equally by all family members.
Make your child feel safe and loved
It is important for the child to feel loved and accepted despite his behavior.
Establish a trusting relationship
Try to create an environment where your child can talk openly about their problems and experiences.
Spend time together
Give your child enough time, do things together, play, talk.
Encourage positive behavior
Praise your child for good deeds and efforts, even the smallest ones.
Use positive parenting methods
Avoid physical punishment and yelling. Try to resolve conflicts through negotiations and compromises.
Talk about the consequences
Breaking the rules leads to predictable consequences. Explain this to the child.
Teach self-control skills
Help your child learn to recognize emotions and control behavior.
Develop social skills
Teach your child to communicate with other people, resolve conflicts peacefully, and respect others' opinions.
Use play therapy
For young children, play therapy can be an effective way to work through emotional issues.
Ask for help
A child psychologist will help identify the causes of deviant behavior and develop an individual correction program.
Important points
Be patient
Correcting deviant behavior is a lengthy process that requires patience and perseverance.
Don't blame yourself
Remember that you are doing the best you can for your child.
Don't compare your child to others
Every child is unique. Remember this and be tolerant.
Take care of yourself
You also need support and rest.
Examples of deviant behavior
If a child steals
Talk to him about stealing. Explain what the consequences of this action may be. Help your child find other ways to get what they want.
If the child is aggressive
Teach him how to use words to express emotions, not with his fists. Help him find “healthy” ways to relax and relieve stress.
If the child is lying
Try to understand why he's lying. Create an environment of trust where the child is not afraid to tell the truth.
If a child skips school
Talk to him about why he doesn't want to go to school. Help your child solve problems that cause them to skip classes.
Remember that it is important to approach any problem individually and with understanding. If you feel you're not coping on your own, seek help.
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