Causes of Children's Tantrums and Signs That Professional Help is Needed

Kapanlagi.com - Tantrums in children often become a source of concern for parents. However, did you know that this behavior is actually a part of the emotional development process in children? A tantrum is an outburst of emotions that can manifest as uncontrolled anger or frustration, marked by screaming, kicking, and very loud crying. Especially in toddlers, tantrums often become their way of communicating discomfort or frustration that is hard to express in words.

According to information from the Cleveland Clinic, tantrums can appear in physical, verbal, or even a combination of both forms. This behavior usually occurs when a child wants something that is hard to articulate or is seeking attention from those around them. Although the frequency of tantrums generally decreases as they grow older, it is important for parents to pay attention if the tantrums become too intense or prolonged. With the right understanding, we can help children manage their emotions better!

1. Understanding the Causes of Tantrums in Children

According to information gathered on Thursday (7/11), there are several interesting factors that make toddlers vulnerable to experiencing tantrums.

2. Frustration Due to Communication Limitations

Children, especially toddlers, often get stuck in deep feelings of frustration. Why? Because they do not yet have sufficient language skills to express what they want. This situation often triggers tantrums, where the little one feels disappointed and angry when adults cannot understand their desires.

As they grow older, children begin to feel the urge to gain more freedom and independence in doing various things. However, when these expectations are not met, tantrums arise as a reaction to the limitations they experience. This is a moment when the worlds of children and adults seem to be separated, and communication becomes the key to bridging that gap.

3. Seeking Attention from Parents or Caregivers

Tantrums often become a "weapon" for children to attract their parents' attention. When a little one feels neglected, an emotional outburst known as a tantrum can be quite an effective—though not always positive—way to gain attention from the adults around them. At this stage of development, it is normal for children to desire more intensive attention.

This attention-seeking behavior can be repeated by children, especially if previous tantrums successfully prompted parents or caregivers to fulfill their desires. Therefore, it is important for parents to understand this behavior pattern and respond wisely. By doing so, they can prevent the formation of habits that may become difficult to control later on.

4. Avoiding Unpleasant Obligations or Activities

At a young age, children are trying to adjust to various routines and responsibilities, such as tidying up toys or taking a nap. However, when faced with activities they dislike, they often express their emotions through tantrums as a way to avoid them.

Moreover, tantrums can also arise when the little ones feel overwhelmed or burdened. This can happen when they find the tasks requested too difficult or when their physical condition does not support them in carrying out the activity.

5. Physical Factors Such as Hunger and Fatigue

Hunger and fatigue are often the main causes of tantrums in little ones, especially toddlers. When their bodies run out of energy or their stomachs are growling, a child's emotional stability can be disrupted, making them more prone to anger or frustration.

When children feel hungry or tired, they become more sensitive to discomfort that can trigger emotional outbursts. Therefore, it is important for parents to maintain their children's diet and rest time to avoid excessive tantrums. With proper attention, we can help them stay cheerful and happy!

6. Signs of a Child's Tantrum That Requires Professional Help

Some signs of tantrums in children require more attention, especially if their intensity is high or lasts until an age where they should be able to better control their emotions. According to information from Hopkins Medicine, prolonged tantrums or those accompanied by certain symptoms may signal more serious issues in a child's emotional development.

Here are some characteristics of tantrums that should prompt professional consultation:

1. Tantrums that do not subside or even worsen after the age of 4. 2. Emotional outbursts that occur repeatedly in a day and are difficult to calm. 3. The child engages in self-harming or harmful behavior towards others during a tantrum. 4. Aggressive behavior or holding their breath until losing consciousness. 5. The child complains of physical issues such as headaches or stomach pain during a tantrum. 6. Continuous difficulties in managing emotions, which disrupt their social activities, learning, or daily life.

If you see these signs, do not hesitate to seek professional help for your child's emotional health!

7. Questions and Answers About the Causes of Children's Tantrums

Is tantrum in children normal?

Yes, tantrums are a part of emotional development in children, especially between the ages of 1-4 years. As they grow older, the intensity of tantrums usually decreases.

8. When should parents be concerned about their child's tantrums?

Parents need to pay attention if a child's tantrum lasts more than 15 minutes, occurs repeatedly in a day, or if the tantrums remain intense after the child is 4 years old.

9. How to deal with tantrums in children?

Parents can try calming techniques such as giving hugs, redirecting attention, or providing a time-out to help the child calm down.

(kpl/moy)