Self-injurious behaviors, such as head banging, hand biting, and teeth clinching, can be challenging for parents to manage. Here are some behavior therapy techniques that may be helpful in addressing these behaviors.

Examples of Self-Injurious Behaviors

Some examples of self-injurious behaviors that may be seen in children include:

• Head-banging or hitting oneself with hands or objects.

• Biting oneself, including lips, tongue, or fingers.

• Scratching or picking at one's skin or wounds.

• Pulling out hair or eyelashes.

• Hitting oneself with fists or objects, such as walls or furniture.

• Ingesting harmful substances or objects.

• Excessive nail biting or skin picking that causes bleeding or scabbing.

General Recommendations for Parents on Handling Self-Injurious Behavior of Children

• Seek Professional Help: Self-injurious behaviors can be complex and require specialized interventions. Seek the help of a professional, such as a psychologist or behavior therapist, who has experience in working with self-injurious behaviors.

• Maintain a Safe Environment: Ensure that the environment is safe and free from objects that could cause injury. Parents may also want to consider using protective gear, such as helmets or wrist guards, to prevent injury during self-injurious behaviors.

• Develop a Plan: Work with a professional to develop a plan that is tailored to your child's specific needs and strengths. The plan may include strategies such as positive reinforcement, differential reinforcement of alternative behaviors, environmental modifications, or teaching replacement behaviors.

• Be Consistent: Consistency is key when working with self-injurious behaviors. Ensure that the interventions are applied consistently across all environments and by all caregivers.

• Monitor Progress: Keep track of the child's progress and adjust the plan as needed. It may be helpful to keep a log of when self-injurious behaviors occur, what triggers them, and how they are managed.

• Practice Self-Care: Caring for a child with self-injurious behaviors can be stressful. It is important for parents to practice self-care and take time to engage in activities that promote relaxation and well-being.

It is important to work with a trained professional to develop a behavior therapy plan that is tailored to the child's specific needs and strengths. With the right support and strategies, it is possible to help children with self-injurious behaviors develop more positive behaviors and improve their overall quality of life.