The article discusses the challenges faced by children with explosive behaviors, increasingly identified as disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD), officially recognized in the DSM-5 since 2013. These children display severe temper outbursts, chronic irritability, and difficulty regulating emotions, significantly impacting their daily lives. Unlike other diagnoses, DMDD more accurately describes their experiences. The article emphasizes the importance of meeting children where they are, focusing on control rather than conflict, and understanding that these children may struggle to articulate their feelings, requiring tailored therapeutic approaches to effectively support them.
These children were once labeled everything from ADHD to early signs of bipolar disorder or intermittent explosive disorder... Many of these children are dealing with disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD), a mood disorder characterized by severe irritability and frequent, intense temper outbursts.
DMDD is a relatively new diagnosis, officially recognized in the DSM-5 in 2013. It was developed to more accurately categorize children who don't fit cleanly into other disorders like pediatric bipolar disorder or standard ADHD.
These are not occasional tantrums. This persistent pattern interferes with daily life, friendships, school functioning, and family dynamics.
The hardest part? These children often can't talk about what's going on... if we show up with empathy, patience, and good questions, kids will open up.
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