Parenting Pointers with Dr. Claudia - Episode 176

Topic - Criminal Minds. Years of research into criminal behavior has revealed that criminal minds are different. Parts of their brains are 18% smaller than typical brains. Deformities are seen in the amygdala which is the seat of emotions. Behaviorally, at age 3 years, they have a distinct lack of fear. From ages 7 to 12, they have a tendency toward callous and unemotional behavior that make them vulnerable to criminal behavior which isn’t necessarily permanent. Omega 3 fatty acids help support brain growth which may reduce the kind of brain deformities that are associated with criminality. If your child demonstrates behaviors related to fearlessness and being unemotional, develop a loving relationship with them. Children who are fearless and resistant to punishment fare better if they have close relationships with their parents. Relationship-based discipline for these children is more effective than the punishment-reward type.