LINK
BEWEEN EMOTIONS AND BEHAVIOUR
Emotions
and behaviour are linked. Sometimes the link is clear but
at other times it is not obvious, consistent or predictable.
Examples of this are, we smile and laugh when we are happy
or excited
but we can also do this when we are nervous. We cry when
we are upset but also when we are happy. We can tremble
with excitement but we can also tremble with fear. An example
of a clear link is when you refuse to buy the toy or clothes
your child wants and because of this she has a tantrum.
A less obvious link could be when your son becomes disinterested
about school and you eventually discover that he has had
a fight with his best friend.
The most important thing to remember is that a change in
your child’s behaviour represents a change
in your child’s emotions. When changes in behaviour
are positive we tend to be happy about them
and rarely think about the reasons for the change. However
when the change is a negative one it merits close attention
and it is worth taking time to think about it first before
reacting, especially thinking
about the possible emotions that are driving the change.
For example:
‘Understanding alone is 70% of the solution and sometimes
the only solution needed’
Michael Quinn Family Caring Trust 2003
Once
you have understood and established the link between the
behaviour and the emotions, try to decide how you can bring
about a positive change.
The following suggestions
may help:
