Does your toddler hit herself when she is angry?
By susanwright
@susanwright (16)
United States
March 16, 2007 11:22pm CST
I have a 16 month old toddler and she has started hitting and pinching herself when I tell her no. Does anyone else's children do that and is this pretty common? I am a first time mom to a toddler and this is all new to me. I don't know why she hits herself and pinched herself because she does it a lot during the day. Do your children do this and is it normal?
2 people like this
4 responses
@wmaharper (2316)
• United States
17 Mar 07
It's normal behaviour. She's just trying to illicit a response out of you, when she does it, just ignore her. chances are she won't do it too hard, and even if she hurts herself, it's just the natural consequences of the tantrum. Once she realizes you aren't going to give in just because of her tantrums, she'll tone it down, but do be prepared for more severe measures on her part initially, she may try new things to see what you'll do. Don't worry about it too much, if you are worried though, contact your pediatrician.
@Jannabis (29)
• United States
17 Mar 07
Wow....that seems kind of extreme,but I think it is normal.I have a 16 month old as well and he throws fits similiar but his Idea is to throw himself on the floor and bang his head on stuff.It is scary,but I think it is purely out of frustration.They are not yet able to communicate as well as they would like and that must be very frusterating.When they are able to voice thier opinions and ideas and know that you are understanding them,the tantrums will stop (or lesson) and the conversations will begin.Once communication is established between the two of you...life will get easier.Just let her express her frusteration for now,as long as she is not seriously injuring herself,she will grow out of it in time.If it continues to be a problem or life threatening in anyway,seek help from a professional.Good Luck to you!!!!
@demoneyesyo (15)
• Philippines
17 Mar 07
no. its not normal. i do have a son. he does't do it. but, i have a sister who had a son who always hitting and inflicting himself. i don't know why either. but as time goes by it will pass. just ask your pediatrician about it. they do have that kind of toddlers.
@DMDstudent (57)
• United States
17 Mar 07
Actually this is normal behavior. They are trying to illicit a response from you. My brothers kid would throw herself backwards on the floor if she didn't get what she wanted. It is called a tantrum. Let them do it (unless they are throwing themselves off the balcony) and they will learn that #1 It hurts
#2 They get no response from you the parent
#3 Why keep doing it?
Just like if a kid threatens to hold their breath. Fine, let them do it. They will pass out (normal nervous system response) if they are stubborn enough and rarely will they do it again.
Again, ask your pediatrician, after all he does have an MD or DO!
