From Exploring Difficult Behavior by TONY LPD · Mental Health
Chapter 5 — Dysregulation
Published
Dysregulation
What does it mean, and how do we respond?
Dysregulation is a central cause of many challenging behaviors. Think of dysregulation as the loss of balance in the nervous system when stress, fear, or confusion overwhelms a child’s ability to cope. Dysregulation is not deliberate misbehavior; it is an involuntary physiological reaction. This can be confusing to caregivers as the child may appear defiant, aggressive, or withdrawn, but in truth, they are struggling with a body and brain that feel out of control. Understanding dysregulation is critical for caregivers and educators because how adults interpret and respond can either escalate the cycle or help restore calm. Adults can confirm the child’s worst thoughts about themselves or provide the co-regulation and partnership that builds the child’s resilience and independent coping strategies.
