When Are Tantrums More Than “Normal”?
Most tantrums in young children are a normal part of development, but tantrums that are unusually frequent, severe, or persist beyond the typical age range may signal an underlying behavioral or mental health concern.
When Are Tantrums More Than “Normal”?
While it’s common for toddlers and preschoolers to have occasional outbursts, certain patterns should prompt further evaluation:
Frequency: Daily tantrums, or tantrums occurring multiple times per day, are not typical, especially after age 5.
Severity: Tantrums involving aggression (hitting, biting, kicking), self-injury, or property destruction are concerning.
Duration: Tantrums that last longer than 15 minutes or are difficult to interrupt may be atypical.
Context: Tantrums that occur “out of the blue,” without clear triggers, or in multiple settings (home, school, public) may indicate a problem.
Mood Between Tantrums: If a child is irritable, angry, or unable to return to a calm state between episodes, this may suggest a mood or regulatory disorder.
Interference with Functioning: When tantrums disrupt family life, school, or social relationships, or cause significant distress, further assessment is warranted.
What Could Be Underlying Causes?
Persistent or severe tantrums can be associated with:
Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD): Characterized by severe, recurrent temper outbursts and a persistently irritable mood.
ADHD, anxiety, or other neurodevelopmental disorders: These conditions can affect a child’s ability to regulate emotions and behavior.
Environmental stressors: Recent changes at home, trauma, or family conflict can contribute to behavioral changes.
Communication or developmental delays: Children who struggle to express themselves may have more frequent or intense tantrums.
What Should Parents and Caregivers Do?
Document the Tantrums: Keep a record of when, where, and how tantrums occur, including triggers, duration, and recovery time.
Observe Patterns: Note any changes in the child’s environment, sleep, or health that may be contributing.
Consult with Professionals: If tantrums are severe, frequent, or interfere with daily life, seek evaluation from a pediatrician or mental health professional experienced in child behavior.
Gather Input from Others: Ask teachers or caregivers about the child’s behavior in other settings.
If you are concerned that your child’s tantrums may be more than “normal,” schedule a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Mejia, a Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician. Call our Coconut Creek office at (754) 200-1756 or fill out an appointment request form to get expert guidance and support for your child’s emotional and behavioral health.
References
Temper Tantrums - National Institutes of Health
Children and Mental Health: Is This Just a Stage?- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder: The Basics- National Institutes of Health
Daily or Severe Tantrums May Point to Mental Health Issues- National Institutes of Health
Temper tantrums: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia- medlineplus.gov
