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What are the symptoms of headbanging?

Signs and symptoms of headbanging include the rhythmic banging of one's head against various objects. For toddlers this is commonly a pillow, bed, or bedhead and occurs at bedtime or nap time. In other instances, a wall, door or table are sometimes used. Headbanging can involve banging either the front or back of the head every few seconds and may last for around 15 minutes.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is headbanging?

Headbanging is the action of banging one's head against something in a rhythmic motion. It is common in boys and girls and is generally temporary and harmless, but can last into childhood for some people.

What causes headbanging?

The exact cause of headbanging in toddlers is unknown, but there are some reasons that your toddler may be banging their head. These can include self-comfort, pain relief, frustration or to seek attention.

How common is headbanging?

Headbanging is surprisingly common in infants, with around 15% of infants aged 9 to 18 months and about 9% of two-year olds exhibiting headbanging behavior.

How is headbanging diagnosed?

Headbanging can be diagnosed by your doctor after an explanation of your child's signs and symptoms. It may help to keep a diary of when and for how long headbanging episodes occur to present to your doctor. Headbanging behavior is generally only considered a …

How is headbanging treated?

In most cases of headbanging behavior in toddlers, no treatment and only management and monitoring are required. This is because most children will grow out of the behavior. If your child has headbanging behavior that causes them to injure themselves or puts …

Will headbanging clear on its own?

Most toddlers with headbanging behavior will grow out of it around the age of 3 years. In some cases, headbanging can continue into childhood and may be indicative of a development disorder, such as autism.

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About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 13 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
Votes: 409 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Childhood immunizations

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