Controlling behavior

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Controlling behavior/lack of flexibility is absolutely a sign of anxiety. He sees his world spiraling out of control, so he latches onto whatever he does have control over.

Who prescribes his ritalin? Stimulant medication can increase anxiety. My child's meltdowns and general frustration behaviors decreased dramatically with a small dose of SSRIs.

+1. You need to treat the anxiety. My anxious niece had the same behaviors at 8.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I know I can't indulge the behavior. It just seems he has zero consideration for everyone else that is sleeping. He screams so loud and just wakes us up. It's very impossible to ignore a screaming child in your room at 530am. I hope after a few days it will change

I went through this with my nine year old until last year. It drove me nuts-- and it's a difficult behavior *not* to respond to.

OP- write out a few morning ground rules on a big poster board. Put a stickie on your door with a reminder to "not disturb" until 7:00. Put some cereal or something that your son can eat for breakfast on the counter. Provide screen time (or something he likes) based on his ability not to disturb you.

My son is anxious *and* impulsive. Written reminders helped. I doubt your son wants you to be upset with him- a simple morning routine, mapped out visually, with an attendant reward system will do the trick. It may take awhile, but it will work.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Controlling behavior/lack of flexibility is absolutely a sign of anxiety. He sees his world spiraling out of control, so he latches onto whatever he does have control over.

Who prescribes his ritalin? Stimulant medication can increase anxiety. My child's meltdowns and general frustration behaviors decreased dramatically with a small dose of SSRIs.

+1