“Fix” Behaviors by Calming the Watchdog & Possum Brain {EP 149}

Understanding our children’s behavior can sometimes be a daunting task, especially when it appears to be random and unpredictable. The good news is that the seemingly random outbursts are not as arbitrary as they might seem. These are an intricate dance of neurobiology, a reflection of your child’s inner world, which can be deciphered through a deeper understanding of neuroscience.

The Three Categories of Baffling Behaviors

In this episode we delve into the neuroscience behind child behavior, aiming to unmask the mysteries that often perplex parents. We focus on three categories that often encapsulate baffling behaviors: lack of regulation, lack of connection, and lack of health safety.

Understanding the Neurobiology

Neuroscience provides us with a profound understanding of what drives these behaviors. It equips us with strategies that work with our child’s brain, not against it. We explore how an understanding of the neurobiology of behavior can bring coherence and eventual change. This knowledge is instrumental in managing challenging behaviors and enhancing the child-parent relationship

Stopping The Behavior While Understanding The Cause

As parents, it is natural for us to want these baffling behaviors to cease. However, it’s equally important to understand what’s causing it. We need to strike a delicate balance between the desire to stop the behavior and the need to understand its root cause. Often, our kids’ baffling behaviors do not pose an immediate physical danger but still evoke a response in us that leaves us feeling like we’re in immediate physical danger.

Different Levels of Activation

Understanding the different levels of activation on the Watchdog and Possum pathways can help us respond appropriately to avoid triggering a larger response. Being aware of these pathways allows us to create safety and invite the Owl brain back. The strategies discussed in the podcast episode, coupled with patience and understanding, can help navigate the tricky landscape of baffling child behavior.

Applying The Knowledge

Understanding the neurobiology of child behavior is a journey of discovery. By applying the knowledge gained from understanding the neuroscience, we can better understand our children, respond more effectively to their behaviors and cultivate a more harmonious and understanding family environment.

Resources Mentioned on the Podcast

Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors released September 21. CLICK HERE to choose from a variety of pre-order bonuses, including a signed copy or 20% off.

Listen on the Podcast

This blog is a short summary of a longer episode on The Baffling Behavior Show podcast.

Find The Baffling Behavior Show podcast on Apple Podcast, Google, Spotify, or in your favorite podcast app.

Or, you can read the entire transcript of the episode by scrolling down and clicking ‘transcript.’

Robyn