Timeholes: A Useful Metaphor when Explaining Unusual or Bizarre Behaviour in Children who Have Moved Families

Abstract

Many psychological problems are present when children have moved families. The majority of such children have experienced trauma and loss. They can show sudden mood changes with extreme behavioural difficulties. The mood changes resemble affect flashbacks. Using metaphor to describe these episodes as 'timeholes', and giving guidance as to how to reduce them, has proved clinically useful. The description of a timehole and its link to other psychological reactions and appropriate interventions are discussed.

All they need is love? Helping children to recover from neglect and abuse

“…Belief that control is not safely relinquished encourages opposition, intolerance of change and obsessionality. Following neglect, behaviour is frequently further coloured by impulsivity, anxiety, fear of rejection and consequences of traumatic ‘flashbacks.’16…”