When a child is having trouble at school, with friends, or at home, parents want to know as quickly as possible what's causing the problem and how they can fix it. Rushing to find an answer, however, could do more harm than good.

"'Parents tend to get fixated on a diagnosis,' [Steven E.] Curtis said. 'A lot of people jump to conclusions.' His...book, released earlier this week by Lifespan Press and available in most bookstores and online, outlines a different way to tackle problem behavior."

He suggests that parents first make a list of concerns they have about a child's behavior. Next, he suggests they observe the child and share their insights with clinicians who can help them explore possible causes. He emphasizes the importance of careful observation and deliberate diagnosis, so children aren't receiving "help" that doesn't actually help. Source: Columbian.com.

While rushing isn't good, waiting can only prolong problems. Read "On Track for Graduation: Boarding Schools and Wilderness Camps Help Troubled Teens Catch up in School" for more ways to help your child.