Faking injuries and moodswings

[Redwinestillfine]

My dd has a habit of faking injuries when upset, particularly if she has been told off or asked to do something she doesn't want do. This is happening a lot atm. Her hormones are all over the place. Today she was in foul mood when she woke up- rude, taking it out on everyone. Then she had a great time with friends ( aftera reminder about treating others with respect). Then she had a fall out with her mates and hurt her hand lashing out. I took her to soft play and she was annoyed with an older child there and then when I told her it was time to go I literally saw her lie down on theflor then start screaming the place down saying she slipped and hurt her head. I helped her up and chivvied her along, then started Screaming the place down just before getting into the car 'my foot, my foot'…..i didn't react to this one, just remained chipper. Then another mood at home and lots of its not fair didn't want what we had for tea etc fell the kitchen stubbed a toe....I don't know if it's normal behaviour. Am trying to be supportive but not sure if I should be firmer.

How old is she?

10

It sounds like a phase- she’ll laugh about this when she’s older, ‘remember when…’. I’d carry on what you are doing, holding the line on any moody behaviour with clear expectations and then breezy and upbeat in the face of any ‘injuries’, moving things along. Maybe just add in some clear praise for mature or kind behaviour when you see it (I'm sure you do this already, but perhaps just dial up a bit). They’ve had a very weird couple of years, plus she’s at or approaching the start of puberty. It’s a lot.

I hope it's a short phase!

I used to fake pains in my back at that age as it got me loads of attention and sympathy. I grew out of it by the time was 11/12. My parents do not know I faked this and I am almost 60 now!

Ds is 10 and does exactly the same!

I’ve told DP that clearly he hasn’t broken his back or his hand isn’t falling off, but it’s his way of communicating to us he needs something that he doesn’t have the emotional maturity to name…. Be that a bit of TLC or attention or just a kick up the arse pep talk.

i could be massively wrong, but at least we aren’t alone with our hypochondriac kids?!