Q&A: Anger, ADHD, Lying, OCD, and Big Feelings

<p>In this Q&amp;A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers eight parent questions about some of the most common — and challenging — behaviors families face. From aggression and ADHD to lying, motivation, OCD, and big emotions, Dr. Dave explains what may drive these behaviors and offers practical, evidence-based strategies parents can use to respond.</p><p></p><p>In this episode, Dr. Dave covers:</p><p>• Why is my three-year-old so angry and aggressive?<br />• How can I help a child with ADHD without medication?<br />• My child is out of control. Where can I send him?<br />• How do I motivate a “lazy” child?<br />• How do I explain OCD to a child?<br />• Why does my child lie about everything?<br />• Why won’t my child listen unless I yell?<br />• Why is my child so sensitive?</p><p></p><p>Key takeaways</p><p>• Anger and aggression in young children can stem from temperament, development, family stress, and other factors. Behavioral parent training can help parents combine warmth with clear expectations and consistent consequences.</p><p></p><p>• Medication is not the only evidence-based ADHD treatment. Parent training, classroom support, organizational skills, and help with peer relationships can all be effective but require consistent adult involvement.</p><p></p><p>• Even when behavior feels out of control, behavioral and family interventions can help. Families may also consider school-based services, therapeutic programs, residential treatment, or hospitalization when safety is a concern.</p><p></p><p>• What looks like “laziness” may reflect depression, ADHD, learning challenges, or other difficulties. Parents can build motivation through meaningful rewards and opportunities for success.</p><p></p><p>• OCD involves intrusive thoughts and/or repetitive behaviors a person feels driven to perform. Treatment, including exposure and response prevention (ERP), can help kids tolerate anxiety without compulsions.</p><p></p><p>• Lying is common in childhood. Parents can emphasize honesty, reinforce truth-telling — especially when it’s difficult — and use calm, proportionate consequences when needed.</p><p></p><p>• If kids only listen after a parent yells, the family may be in a coercive cycle. Calm directions and predictable consequences can break the pattern and show that yelling isn’t what makes a direction matter.</p><p></p><p>• Some children experience emotions more intensely. Parents can help them identify feelings, build coping skills, and lear