When Should I Worry About Tantrums?
When Should I Worry About Tantrums?
Outbursts are cause for concern when they're persistent, pervasive, and impairing
Clinical Expert: Gabrielle Carlson, MD
en EspañolAs with any troubling behavior, Dr. Gabrielle Carlson of Stony Brook University explains, parents should worry about extreme outbursts when they meet her “3 Ps” criteria: persistent, pervasive, and impairing. Yes, Dr. Carlson admits, “impairing” doesn’t start with a P, but it’s key to understanding when you need to get help.
Related: Three Common Parenting Traps
This article was last reviewed or updated on November 28, 2023.