Parents and caregivers frequently ask prescribers for medications for children’s problematic behaviors especially ones associated with hyperactivity and inattentiveness. Instead of writing medications on a scriptpad, prescribers should more often choose to write down this message, “get to know your child’s personality.” Children with a couple of problem behaviors, do not suffer from the all too common disorder known as ADHD, rather they function within the normal range of behavior which may include among other things having an outgoing personality. Instead of doing schoolwork, some kids prefer to socialize during group time. In this example, neither diagnosis nor medication is indicated for these children, rather, the appropriate treatment includes guidance and reassurance for caregivers.
Child Psychiatry is both a noble profession and extremely effective when practiced correctly. I must clearly state that I do not aim to limit psychiatric diagnosis and treatment desperately needed by so many children. Those who do need treatment should seek it out and continue it. I do aim, however, to alert parents that some children do not need treatment and should avoid it. Whatever the case may be, understanding a child’s personality is still key to both managing problematic behaviors and ultimately to a child’s success.
Why is understanding personality so important? The human brain is the ultimate computer. Different people are “hardwired” from their DNA with different skills and abilities that form their personality. Most dominant personality traits become apparent in early childhood and remain constant throughout one’s life. New evidence supports that one’s personality has more influence on success than even intelligence.
To people, young or old, figuring out what makes their personality unique is of extreme importance. The earlier this information about personality is known in life, the more beneficial it can be. It can aid in helping children navigate the ups and downs of young personhood, always a daunting expedition! The better your understanding of a child’s personality, the better job you can do in supporting a child while he or she explores both the strengths that come naturally to his or her particular personality type as well as the areas that need further development.
Knowing oneself well is the key to being successful at school, at home, and in relationships. Because knowing oneself is perhaps the single most important life achievement, teaching children to not only know themselves but to know themselves as early as possible may be the single most important gift you could give them. Knowing oneself both well and early means making better decisions at a younger age about what you want to be, where you want to go, who you want to take along with you, and above all, how to achieve one’s own personal version of success.
Whether you are a kid just starting out on your personality expedition, or an adult helping children start their quest, your primary objective is the same, learn and share this most important message that my grandfather once shared with me: “Success is to know oneself. Knowing oneself means knowing what makes one happy. Create your life around this principle to be successful.”
Want to learn how to better understand your child’s personality? Look for my website www.DrOree.com coming soon! Like my page on facebook and subscribe to my blog!
