Help kids manage their anger

By Dr Bill Maier


Remember the last time you saw an adult lose his temper and throw a fit in public? Chances are, he learned that behaviour as a child.

Anger is a normal human emotion — something we all experience from time to time. But like all emotions, it should be managed properly. If children are never taught how to control their tempers, they will probably go on to become angry adults. And no one enjoys being around such a person.

Childhood frustrations are often caused when parents are impatient or inconsistent. Kids may sense that their expectations are going unnoticed, or that their parents don’t give them enough guidance. The anxiety they feel can often be cured by creating a more stable and consistent environment.

This may not solve the problem, but it’s a good place to begin when trying to understand your child’s anger. Emotions are complex, and not always easy to understand. But with a little patience and hard work, anyone can learn to control their temper.


From TODAY, Voices
Monday, 06-April-2009