Goa, Sept. 10 -- Janet Mascarenhas

A child suddenly talks back, another child slams the door and another simply gives the silent treatment. These behaviours trigger parents and it often follows a character assassination of 'this is how we were in our days.' This behaviour may not always be the whole story. When a child is still learning to identify and articulate their emotions and needs, behaviour often becomes a medium of expression. "Sometimes, a challenging behaviour is also a child's indirect way of seeking connection, reassurance or emotional regulation," says Dr Rupali Mohbe, a senior clinical psychologist and psychotherapist who has over two decades of experience, working in child, adolescent and family mental health. To an adult...