Understanding Tantrums in 7-Month-Old Babies: Normal Behavioral Development or Typed Control?

Many parents experience moments of frustration when their 7-month-old baby throws a tantrum. However, it's important to understand that while these reactions might resemble traditional tantrums they are often more about the baby's emotional development and inability to express frustration in a controlled manner.

Emotional Development and Frustration

At around 7 months old, babies are starting to experience and express a range of emotions, including frustration, anger, and sadness. They may not yet have the ability to regulate these emotions effectively, which can lead to vigorous reactions when faced with changes in their environment or the loss of something they find engaging.

.React to Changes in Object Permanence

While babies are beginning to grasp the concept of object permanence—the understanding that objects still exist even when they can't see them—they may still struggle with the idea of losing something they want. When you take something away, they may not fully understand why it's gone, leading to their upset reaction.

Communicating Needs and Feelings

Babies often use crying and physical movements to communicate their needs and feelings. When they throw a fit, they may be expressing a desire for the item they can no longer have or simply communicating discomfort with the situation. This is a normal part of their development.

Tantrums and Learned Behavior

On the other hand, tantrums in children can often be a result of learned behavior. Parents may unknowingly reinforce this behavior by giving in to the child's demands to stop the tantrum. Over time, the child learns that throwing a tantrum can help them achieve their desired outcomes.

The Solution: Unlearning the Behavior

The solution to this type of tantrum is to "unlearn" the behavior by never giving in to the child's demands. This might seem difficult at first, but with consistent approach and patience, the child will eventually learn to cope better with these emotions. It's important to respond with comfort and reassurance during these emotional moments.

Conclusion

While your baby's reaction might resemble a traditional tantrum, it's more about her emotional development and her inability to express frustration in a more controlled manner. As she grows, she will learn to cope better with these feelings. By understanding and responding appropriately, you can help facilitate her emotional and developmental growth.