Temper tantrums are emotional outbursts typically displayed by young children. They are generally characterized by crying and screaming. All children experience temper tantrums at some point, and they are considered a normal, healthy part of child development.

Temper tantrums typically occur during early childhood, from the ages of 1 to 4 years. They tend to peak at age 2 and decrease in frequency thereafter as children demonstrate improved self-control and become better able to communicate with parents and other caregivers. Generally, temper tantrums are infrequent after age 5, and children who continue to experience outbursts after this age may do so throughout childhood.

Some children have temper tantrums regularly, whereas others experience them infrequently. The frequency of tantrums is related to the individual temperament (disposition) of the child. Simply put, some children are just more prone to regular outbursts than others. Temper tantrums affect boys and girls equally.

Temper tantrums can be frustrating and embarrassing for parents, who often blame themselves for their child’s outbursts. However, tantrums are typically caused by a combination of factors, including immediate circumstances, the child’s age, temperament, communication skills and developmentally healthy behavior. Poor parenting skills may be involved, but are not a cause of tantrums.

Children may have temper tantrums for a number of reasons, including:

• Frustration
  
  
• Anxiety
  
  
• Anger
  
  
• Tiredness
  
  
• Hunger
  
  
• Discomfort
  
  
• Jealousy of a friend or sibling
  
  
• To seek attention
  
  
• To manipulate parents to act in a desired manner (e.g., buy them a toy or candy)
  
  
• To avoid performing a certain task (e.g., eating their vegetables)