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

In this Q&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.In this episode, Dr. Dave covers:• Why is my three-year-old so angry and aggressive?• How can I help a child with ADHD without medication?• My child is out of control. Where can I send him?• How do I motivate a “lazy” child?• How do I explain OCD to a child?• Why does my child lie about everything?• Why won’t my child listen unless I yell?• Why is my child so sensitive?Key takeaways• 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.• 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.• 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.• What looks like “laziness” may reflect depression, ADHD, learning challenges, or other difficulties. Parents can build motivation through meaningful rewards and opportunities for success.• 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.• Lying is common in childhood. Parents can emphasize honesty, reinforce truth-telling — especially when it’s difficult — and use calm, proportionate consequences when needed.• 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.• Some children experience emotions more intensely. Parents can help them identify feelings, build coping skills, and learn to move forward after difficult moments. Further ReadingAngry Kids: Dealing With Explosive BehaviorBehavioral Treatments for Kids With ADHDBehavioral Parent TrainingSchool Success Kit for Kids With ADHDComplete Guide to ADHDWhy Kids Lie and What Parents Can Do About ItHow to Give Kids Effective InstructionsHealthy Minds, Thriving Kids