What could be the issue with this child?

Question

I know we can't diagnose but a 4 year old neighbor has definate issues. I am wondering if they are symptoms of mental illness. He hurts other children ( hits, pulls hair, kicks in face, hit kid in head and then later in the lip with hard toy, etc) for no apparent reason. When asked what happened and why, he says, "I hurt him because I wanted to" if asked if it was on purpose he says, "yes". Often he will go to tell his parents he hurt someone before the victim does. He aslo has some language delays and stills talks like a baby--although, important to note, he is able to effectively relay his wants and needs, so I don't think his bad behavior is because of frustration over this. He has disruptive behaviors with his parents. His mom is at her wits end. I worry about this kid hurting my child and that is not normal to me.

Answer 1

You're right, it's not normal.

But there could be many causes, including abuse.  Some of what you described are red flags.

If this was happening to a child I knew, I would put in a call to CPS.  It's anonymous and could save this child's life.

All the best.

Answer 2

Could be high functioning autism. Sounds like the little boy across the street from my parents house. He broke his mom's nose three times.  He needs to be evaluated. If his parents wont, call Child Protection. We have a toddler in foster care who seems pretty normal and they had us have him evaluated to see if he needed any services.  This little one you're talking about sounds like he needs some services, but his parents won't know what they are until he's evaluated and his needs are identified.

Answer 3

i would worry , too.

he is hurting other children because he wants to - he enjoys it.

he needs a psychiatrist - now.

at worst, he could become a serial killer. but he probably won't.

Answer 4

hes a bully

not mental illness call social services that boy needs to be punished

thats lack of boundaries and discipline not mental illness