What to do about a one-year-old child's irritable and easily angered temperament

The treatment for irritability and anger in a one-year-old child depends on the underlying cause, which may commonly include excessive indulgence, calcium deficiency, iron-deficiency anemia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or mania.

1. Excessive Indulgence

Children who are overly indulged may become excessively dependent on their parents and lack opportunities to learn emotional self-regulation or how to cope with frustration. When faced with difficulties or unsatisfactory situations, they are prone to anger or temper outbursts. It is recommended to adjust parenting approaches by avoiding overindulgence and encouraging the development of self-control and social skills.

2. Calcium Deficiency

When a child's body lacks sufficient calcium, neural transmission in the brain may be disrupted, potentially leading to emotional instability, discomfort, and irritability. This condition may also be accompanied by symptoms such as delayed physical growth and thin, pale hair. It is advisable to take calcium supplements such as calcium gluconate tablets, oyster calcium carbonate granules, or oyster calcium carbonate tablets under the guidance of a healthcare professional to alleviate symptoms.

3. Iron-Deficiency Anemia

Hemoglobin is the key molecule responsible for oxygen transport. Given the brain’s high demand for oxygen, insufficient red blood cell count or low hemoglobin levels can lead to inadequate oxygen supply to the brain, resulting in mood swings and irritability. This is often accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue and reduced physical stamina. Treatment may involve iron supplements such as ferrous succinate tablets, ferrous fumarate granules, or iron dextran tablets, used under medical supervision.

4. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

This condition may result from imbalances in neurotransmitters in the brain, making children easily distracted by external stimuli and exhibiting symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Treatment may include medications such as atomoxetine hydrochloride capsules, methylphenidate hydrochloride tablets, or doxapram hydrochloride injection, prescribed by a doctor. Additional therapies such as transcranial magnetic stimulation or neurofeedback may also be used under medical guidance to improve symptoms.

5. Mania

This condition is associated with imbalances in dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain. During episodes, children often experience extremely elevated moods, which can impair effective communication, leading to conflicts, arguments, and confrontations. It is recommended to take medications such as carbamazepine tablets, olanzapine tablets, or vitamin B12 tablets under the supervision of a qualified physician to manage disease progression.

If symptoms of irritability and anger in a one-year-old child do not improve with age, timely medical evaluation is necessary. Follow medical advice to implement targeted interventions and prevent further deterioration of the condition.