1 year old hitting herself

My one year old granddaugher has suddenly started to hit herself.  She also will bang her head on the floor. She at times seems to get frustrated and will pull her mothers hair or try to hit her.  She has good social skills, is walking, starting to say a few words, but its the self hitting and banging head that is concerning.  Is this normal?

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Yes, it is normal, a reflection of frustration. Children so young do not yet have the capacity to manage strong feelings like frustration and anger, so they easily become overwhelmed. They have few 'tools' at their disposal. The behavior will wanr over time. For now, restrain her so that she cannot harm herself if she is hitting her head on the floor. Hitting herself will not result in any damage.