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Do 'Terrible Twos' Mean Trouble Ahead? U-M Study Looks At Toddler Behavior

DETROIT (WWJ) - We've all heard of the 'terrible twos' — but researchers now warn it may be more than just a phase.

The University of Michigan's Dr. Rebecca Waller urges parents to pay attention to behaviors exhibited by a child at this age.

Certain bad behaviors are normal for toddlers, she said — but they should taper off.

"Things like children showing a lake of empathy, potentially lying, not caring so much about people's distress, not being as responsive to emotions, especially those of their parents," said Waller, who has a PHD in Developmental Psychology.

Waller told WWJ's Dr. Deanna Lites a new U-M study has found that these may be indicators of problems such as aggression and stealing later in life, and those children may later be more likely to bully, steal and fight.

So where does the behavior come from?

Waller says it's both nature and nurture, but some of that can be changed with proper nurturing and positive child/parent interactions.

"There does seem to be this kind of heritable genetic pathway," Waller said. "But, actually, really positive parenting during this kind of terrible twos period can kind of buffer that."

Her advice to parents: "I would say just kind of being on the lookout and trying to increase those skills in responding to others' emotions and caring about others during from about age two to about age four."

If a parent has concerns, reach out to a professional. Waller said treatment programs are available.

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