Biting

Examinations and Tests

Talk to a health professional if you suspect that your child's biting is becoming a problem. Your health professional will want to know details about your child's biting and other behaviour. Typical questions revolve around the context of the biting, discipline measures, and aspects of your child's daily life.

Questions about situations where your child has bitten someone

  • Is your child more likely to bite an adult or a child?
  • Does your child seem angry or frustrated when he or she bites?
  • How many people are usually around when your child bites?
  • Is there a certain place or situation in which your child seems most likely to bite?

Questions about the discipline of your child

  • Generally, what are your thoughts on disciplining your child?
  • How do you respond to your child when he or she bites?
  • How does your child respond after being disciplined when he or she has bitten someone?

Question about daily behaviour and environment

  • Is your child frequently around other children? If so, is it usually in small or large groups?
  • Are there any significant changes in your child's life, such as a recent move or the birth of another child?
  • Does your child have any other recent behaviour that concerns you?
  • How do others in your home express anger?
  • Do you have any concerns about how others may be treating your child?

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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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