terrible temper tantrums

My son is 19 months old and just recently has started to throw tantrums that become fits.  He hits and scratches himself.  The last two times it has happened while restrained (once in his carseat and the next in his stroller).  He is soothed if I take him out of restraints and cuddle him.  I am not sure what causes the tantrum but he is inconsolable unless I take him out and cuddle him.  Is this normal behavior?  What should I do?  Does it cause the tantrums to increase if I react?  

[connorkl]

I have researched tantrums, and all the experts say to ignore the behavior.  Picking him up and cuddling him will only reinforce the behavior.  During the tantrums, make sure he is in a safe environment, but do not give him any attention.  I know this is hard, I have an 18 month-old myself, but it is the only way to let children know that tantrums are not acceptable.

[flutts]

well of course he stops when you cuddle him!  
He has learned
fit = cuddle
what he needs to re-learn is being good = cuddle
and throwing fits = timeouts/ignoring/and the such.

[angelinamarina]

Any ideas on how to ignore a tantruming 6 year old who follows me through the house beating on me?

[specialmom]

Tantrums are normal in young children but by age 6 they shouldn't be often or as extreme as you suggest.  What is the tantrum over?  There will almost always be a trigger.  How do you handle it?  Do you yourself become angry and react with either yelling or spanking?  Does he have any speech issues?  All can play a role in an out of control child.  How does he do in school-----  issues there as well or is this mainly at home?  More information would be helpful.  Good luck.