Types of Tantrums in Children and How to Handle Them

A tantrum is a child's emotional expression that manifests in various ways, such as crying loudly, rolling on the floor, or throwing objects. In general, tantrums in children occur between the ages of 1 and 4 because they are not yet capable of expressing their desires or feelings in words.

 

This condition is considered normal so that parents do not need to panic or worry when facing it. Tantrums in children can be classified into several different types. It is important for parents to recognize the type of tantrum occurring in their child in order to handle it appropriately.

 

Let's read this article to learn more about the types of tantrums in children and how to deal with them.

 

Types of Tantrums in Children

 

Tantrums in children are a normal condition, but there are several types of tantrums in children that parents should recognize to deal with their child’s tantrums appropriately according to their condition.

 

1. Manipulative Tantrum

 

Manipulative tantrums happen when a child's desires are not fulfilled properly. The child will throw a tantrum in a calculated manner to manipulate others, especially parents, into fulfilling their desires. Not all children throw tantrums when faced with such situations, but this type of tantrum often happens because the child experiences rejection regarding their desires.

 

2. Temper Tantrum 

 

The next type of tantrum in children is a temper tantrum. This type of tantrum happens because the child is unable to express their feelings in a proper manner. Triggers for temper tantrums include fatigue, hunger, failure to accomplish something, and stress due to environmental pressures.

 

3. Desperate Tantrum

 

Desperate tantrums are characterized by silence in a child, which also involves their loss of enthusiasm for activities, helplessness, and desperation. This usually happens due to a high emotional outburst caused by significant fear or discomfort, but the child does not dare to express it. 

 

How to Deal with Tantrums in Children

 

Tantrums in children can sometimes be troublesome and upsetting to the parents. However, here is where the role of parents becomes crucial in aiding their child's growth and character development. Avoid violence toward children during tantrums; instead, use communicative approaches, such as:

 

1. Giving Comforting Hugs to the Child

 

The first way to handle tantrums in children is by giving comforting hugs. Hugging the child helps to calm their emotions.

 

2. Staying by the Child’s Side

 

The next way to handle tantrums is to stay with the child while it is happening. Being with the child during their tantrum prevents them from feeling neglected.

 

3. Distracting the Child’s Attention

 

Distracting the child's attention can be a way to handle tantrums. You can distract them by going for a walk or giving them their favorite snack.

 

4. Avoiding Physical Punishment

 

Using physical punishment, such as hitting the child during a tantrum, is not a good practice. Such parenting styles can set a bad example for the child.

 

5. Identifying the Cause

 

Once the tantrum has subsided, talk to the child to understand the cause. In some cases, tantrums can be induced by separation anxiety disorder or extreme sadness when separated from parents.

 

If the tantrums persist and worsen despite having tried several methods, consult a Pediatrician at Siloam Hospitals for appropriate treatment according to the type and cause of the tantrum.