Tantrums can be overwhelming for both children and parents, but understanding why they occur can help you respond effectively. In Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), all behaviors, including tantrums, serve a specific function or purpose. Understanding the four functions of behavior can help you identify why your child is having a tantrum and what they are trying to communicate.
The four functions are: attention, access to tangible items, escape, and sensory stimulation. Let’s explore each function using the same example—a child having a tantrum in the grocery store.
Attention
One reason for tantrums is to gain attention from others. If your child feels ignored or wants your focus, they may act out to get your attention, even if it’s negative.
Example:
In the grocery store, your child starts crying and screaming. You immediately rush over and try to calm them down, giving them your full attention. In this case, your child might be throwing a tantrum to get your attention, and by responding quickly, you reinforce this behavior.
ABA Tip: Try to provide positive attention when your child is behaving well. If the tantrum occurs for attention, stay calm and limit your response until the behavior subsides. Then, praise positive behavior once they calm down.
Access to Tangibles (Wants Something)
Tantrums can also occur when your child wants something, like a toy, snack, or other tangible item. They may act out to get what they want.
Example:
Your child spots a candy bar in the store and asks for it. When you say “no,” they begin to cry and scream. If you give in and buy the candy, the tantrum was successful in getting them what they wanted.
ABA Tip:
Be consistent in not giving in to tantrums when your child wants something. Instead, teach them to ask appropriately. You can also use a reward system, like earning a treat for positive behavior throughout the shopping trip.
Escape (Avoiding Something Unpleasant)
Children may use tantrums to escape or avoid something they don’t like, such as a task, environment, or demand.
Example:
In the grocery store, your child starts to throw a tantrum because they don’t want to sit in the cart or follow along as you shop. If you give up and leave the store early, your child learns that a tantrum can help them avoid tasks or environments they dislike.
ABA Tip:
When a tantrum occurs as an escape behavior, try to continue with the task at hand and calmly guide your child through it. Reinforce calm behavior by offering praise or small rewards once they complete the task.
Sensory Stimulation (Self-Stimulation)
Some tantrums occur because of sensory needs or discomfort. Children with sensory sensitivities may feel overwhelmed by their environment, or they may seek certain sensations that calm them.
Example:
Your child starts to have a meltdown in the grocery store due to bright lights, noise, or too much stimulation. They may cry, cover their ears, or engage in repetitive behaviors to calm themselves down.
ABA Tip:
In cases of sensory overload, it’s important to recognize what triggers your child and provide sensory breaks when needed. You might use calming tools, like noise-canceling headphones, or teach self-regulation strategies to help them cope with overwhelming environments.
Understanding why your child is having a tantrum is the first step toward addressing the behavior effectively. Whether they’re seeking attention, trying to get something, avoiding a task, or experiencing sensory overload, knowing the function of the tantrum allows you to respond in a way that reduces future occurrences. Using ABA strategies, you can teach your child more appropriate ways to communicate their needs, reducing the frequency and intensity of tantrums over time.
