Mistake 1: A problem (when there is none)
You can make two kinds of mistakes when considering whether there is a problem with your child's behavior.
First, you might react as though something is a problem when it is not.
A father, for example, may worry about his teenage son's moodiness and detachment. Another parent may worry that her preschooler is too shy. Should parents be alarmed about these behaviors? Moodiness is a problem if it becomes depression or aggression. Shyness is a problem if accompanied by painful isolation.
You avoid the something is a problem when it is not mistake by understanding what is reasonable and unreasonable for your child depending his or her age and temperament. In the Journal example, you might decide that biting cannot be overlooked. Violence of any kind is learned, not inborn, and a problem that has to be taken seriously.
Next: Overreaction