Children don't always behave the way their parents wish they would, but how do you know if your child's behavior is normal or if it may be an indication of something more going on? Here are three signs that you should discuss your child's behavior with their pediatrician.

1. Your Child Is Hostile

Most children are good-natured. Of course, they have their bad moments or even bad days when they are grumpy and everything seems to upset them. But if your child seems to be openly hostile or resentful or it seems like they go out of their way to be uncooperative and rebellious more of the time than not, it's time to talk to the doctor.

2. Your Child Shows Signs of Depression

Children are typically happy and take joy in even the simplest things. Like adults, they may occasionally have moments where they aren't quite as bubbly as they normally are. However, if you notice a pattern of withdrawn behavior, lack of interest, and emotional outbursts, they may be depressed.

Children can become depressed over a specific situation, such as if a grandparent recently passed away or something is going on at school. If your child is pre-pubescent, there's always the possibility it could be something physical, such as a hormone or chemical imbalance. These issues can also be hereditary.

Kids are sometimes reluctant to tell their parents how they're feeling or are uncertain themselves. If your child seems depressed, meeting in private with their pediatrician may help them open up about whatever is going on.

3. Your Child Is Very Particular About Things

It's not uncommon for children to want things a certain way. Most kids like routines, which is a good thing. If your preschooler wants to sleep in their favorite pajamas each night, this is normal behavior.

But if their favorite pajamas are in the washer and unavailable and this elicits screaming for an hour, causes them to be inconsolable, and makes them refuse to accept reality and wear a different pair, it may be a problem. Most kids might be disappointed but will understand the situation and quickly adapt.

Does your child seem to have extreme difficulty when things suddenly change? Do they need things to be a specific way? Just like adults, children can develop obsessive-compulsive behaviors. An intense dislike for certain textures or extreme reactions to certain noises or situations or foods can also be signs of autism or Asperger's syndrome.

You don't need to wait until your child is sick to take them to the doctor. If you feel something just isn't right about their behavior and you are struggling to deal with them effectively, schedule an appointment with a pediatric physician today.