Uncooperative Behavior

Recognize the Issue

Uncooperative children and adolescents can frustrate everyone around them, creating intense stress for themselves and those who love them. Most young people who are uncooperative do not want to be a ‘bad’ kid. They often feel as bewildered by their behavior as their parents and teachers. Children and adolescents who are uncooperative often cannot meet the expectations that all the other kids seem to be able to do without effort. They can feel lonely, frustrated, and terrible about themselves. Children and adolescents may say and do things like:

Saying “I don’t care” or “This is stupid”
Failing at a tasks because they refuse to try
When asked ‘why’ they make a mistake, they say, “I don’t know”
Resisting any situation where they are not sure they can succeed
Falling in with undesirable friends
Having temper tantrums like a much younger child
Acting impulsively, without thinking about the consequences
Resisting even reasonable directions from authority figures

It is critical to know that uncooperative children want help, yet are afraid to accept it. They may get ‘stuck in a rut’ where they want to change but do not have the skills to change. Uncooperative children are often hiding disabilities, fears of rejection, or emotional pain. Uncooperative children and adolescents can also be highly anxious and may even be at-risk for depression. These children need understanding and support in order to change.

Understand the Possible Causes

Support Services: What do you do?

Depending on the reasons why a child or adolescent is having trouble meeting behavioral expectations, support may include assessment, psychotherapy or both. Your MindWell psychologist will help put you on the correct path by offering one or more of the following forms of support:


Phone: (703) 378-7998 14110 Robert Paris Ct., Chantilly, VA 20151