Thanks girls. I had heard somewhere about that autonomic breathing reflex, so I'm not too concerned about her doing herself any damage, it's so distressing to see!

What I am more interested in are some coping strategies and what to do to discourage such behaviour. Luckily, she doesn't do this with anyone but me and on occasion her father. Is it therefore something I am or am NOT doing?? Or is it just that she knows I will respond to her behaviour because she is aware of my limits as well? It is all so confusing, and so frustrating!!! I did a little bit of psychology at uni, but hated it!!! I should have listened harder!!!

Julesy