Trait:
Saying no quickly, even to things they usually enjoy.
What it can look like:
Refusing before hearing the full idea
Automatic pushback to requests
Agreeing later once pressure drops
Control seeking during stress
Gentle guidance:
Pause after the first no
Lower urgency in your voice
Safety grows when choice stays present
Reframe wording
For example:
Rather than โGo brush your teethโ try โWhen weโre finished here, shall we see who can get the sparkliest teeth?โ