Most of society does not acknowledge or even realize that physical aggression from children toward their parents ever arises. Sadly, it does.
Most children outgrow their toddler tantrums by age three or four. After that, hitting, kicking, throwing, breaking, biting, and spitting is usually considered inappropriate. However, due to trauma, mental health issues, or biological problems, some children do resort to physical aggression after it is age-appropriate.
Parents with physically aggressive children often struggle with how to get help. Explaining to others that your cute, blond, eight-year-old is physically attacking you is difficult. Does that mean you're an incapable parent? Are you exaggerating? Or, most damning, does someone think that it's really you abusing your child rather than the other way around?
There are multiple reasons why a child might resort to physical aggression or abuse. They came from an abusive background. They're suffering from an emotional or behavioral issue that requires therapy and/or medication. Or they're suffering from ailments such as poor hearing or an auditory processing disorder that compromises their ability to function effectively on a daily basis.
Children who use physical aggression rather than appropriate ways to express their anger, frustration, or fear, are in need of therapeutic interventions. Parents should consider some or all of the following: keep a journal of the incidents, confide in a trusted friend or pastor, find support from a friend or relative, provide consequences for your child's actions, and report your child to the police.
<< Home