Beyond Behaviors, Second Edition: Using Brain Science and Compassion to Understand and Solve Children's Behavioral Challenges

An updated edition of the groundbreaking book that changed how parents, educators, and professionals respond to problem behaviors in kids.

In her pioneering, paradigm-shifting book Beyond Behaviors, internationally known pediatric psychologist Dr. Mona Delahooke reshaped how we view and respond to children's challenging behaviors. In this second edition, she reminds us that problem behaviors are just the tip of the iceberg--signaling deeper, unmet needs that are best addressed in the context of relational safety.

This updated edition features:

• Neuroscience-based strategies to address the root causes of behaviors

• Accessible worksheets, charts, and handouts to promote resilience and build satisfying, secure relationships

• A new chapter with answers to common questions from the Beyond Behaviors community

Designed to support children diagnosed with:

• Conduct disorder

• Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)

• Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD)

• Reactive attachment disorder (RAD)

• Sensory processing disorder (SPD)

• Anxiety and depression

As well as:

• Autistic children and teens

And those experiencing:

• Developmental or learning differences

• Aggressive, confusing, or unpredictable behaviors

• Tantrums and meltdowns

• Disconnection or shutdown

• Trauma, toxic stress, or adverse childhood experiences

Author: Mona Delahooke
Publisher: PESI Publishing
Published: 03/03/2026
Pages: 324
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 1.40lbs
Size: 9.60h x 6.80w x 0.90d
ISBN: 9781683739005

About the Author

Mona Delahooke, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 30 years of experience caring for children and their families. She is a senior faculty member, retired, of the Profectum Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting families of neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults.

Dr. Delahooke holds the highest level of endorsement in the field of infant and toddler mental health in California, as a reflective practice mentor (RPM). She is a frequent speaker, trainer, and consultant to parents, organizations, schools, and public agencies. Dr. Delahooke has dedicated her career to promoting compassionate, relationship-based, neurodevelopmental interventions for children with developmental, behavioral, emotional, and learning differences.

Her books include Social and Emotional Development in Early Intervention: A Skills Guide for Working with Children (PESI Publishing, 2017) and Brain-Body Parenting (HarperCollins, 2022).