Signs that biting is a behavioural problem
It is normal for infants and young children to occasionally bite. However, sometimes biting indicates a more serious behavioural problem related to hostility and aggression. A child should be evaluated by a health professional if biting:
- Is frequent and continues despite caregiver efforts to control it.
- Occurs after 3 years of age.
- Occurs in a variety of settings.
- Injures other people.
- Occurs out of general anger and/or aggression rather than out of frustration or desire for an object.
- Occurs with other aggressive behaviours, such as hurting animals.
| Author: | Amy Fackler, MA Carrie Henley | Last Updated: June 26, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics | |
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