DEAR Dr. Fritz,
Good day. I have a seven-year-old child who has tantrums. She can scream to the top of her voice, and even roll over in the malls, if she doesn’t get what she wants. I am almost desperate and frustrated of her raising my blood pressure.
I hope you can help me on how to stop her temper tantrums. Thanks.
Desperate Cathy
*****
Dear Desperate Cathy,
Obviously, the easiest way to stop your child’s temper tantrum is just to give in to her wants. But, that won’t be good in the long run, because she will just raise her voice and roll over whenever she wants something.
The first thing is to control your temper. This can also keep your blood pressure in check. Spanking will only make the tantrum worse. Moreover, if both of you will shout, you won’t be able to understand each other. So, take a deep breath and keep calm. Then, let her know that her tantrums are not acceptable.
But, if she will not stop screaming, don’t give in to her, even if you have to drag her in the mall. And when she realizes that you are serious, and her tantrums are not going anywhere, she’ll stop.
I remember when I was at the same age as your child, I would also scream when I want something. But, my parents would not give in to anything that I want. One time, when I rolled over to get myself a walking doll, they told me that they love me, and would only give in to what is necessary and important for me - as I should value money. So, as early as seven, I understood the value of money.
Good luck!
Dr. Fritz
(Dr. Fritz Legarde Espedilla is an aesthetic dermatologist and surgeon and a clinical sexologist. She is also trained in hypnotherapy and Medical Acupuncture. She is the anchor of Secrets of Dr. Fritz, of Hugyaw.com. She has been in the broadcast media for more than a decade and has written a book based on her 15 year stint with her radio program, “Healthy is Sexy Secrets ni Dr. Fritz.” For your questions, you may e-mail them to dokfritz@yahoo.com. If you don’t wish your letter to be published, we regret that we cannot answer them. Thank you for your understanding.)