Abstract
Temper tantrums are common, troubling behaviors encountered by workers in group care settings. This paper initially reviews the current state of theory and research into temper tantrums both within and outside the group care arena. The normal developmental context of the temper tantrum is described and a number of theoretical perspectives are reviewed. Explanations for the persistence of tantrum behaviors in some children are then canvassed. The common elements and phases of temper tantrums are outlined to provide a framework for understanding and management, with an emphasis on the interaction between child and care worker. This is followed by a discussion of management issues which arise from the analysis. Other tantrum-like behaviors are described and management approaches suggested.
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Bath, H.I. Temper tantrums in group care. Child Youth Care Forum 23, 5–27 (1994). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02629766
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02629766