Self Injury

[John Nethery]

Our nearly four year old granddaughter will from time to time pinch herself, slap herself, pull her hair or throw herself against a wall. She has never drawn blood or injured herself or caused bruises but it is upsetting nonetheless to her parents and us. She seems to want to do it when she is upset or extra tired or hungry. What should we do or can we do.? Thanks for your help.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Dear Mr. Nethery,

Four-year-olds are famous for having difficulty tolerating frustration. And their functioning is particularly compromised if they are hungry, ill or tired.

One approach is simply ignore the behavior - i.e., in no way interact with her when she acts in such a fashion. Just go about your business. Another approach is to give her a brief (i.e., five minute) time out in a chair when she behaves in any way that is hurtful to herself. Of the two options, I'd urge the first.

[joanna hanna]

our 2 yearold does simulare behavior we have recentally found out the may have sensory integration issues. consult an ot with special si training for e1valuation or speak with her dr.  our daughter slao has other problems developmenally which may or may not be coincidental.