I recently slapped one of my children. While the circumstances were extenuating, I was surprised by my split-second reaction. I therefore began to wonder if there was anything I could do to rewire this reflex to ensure that I don't do it again.

Does anyone know of techniques that might be particularly appropriate?

I've approached a general psychoanalyst with experience in mentalization-based therapists about this, and was skeptical: while I like these techniques, I (1) think I'm already generally able to mentalize well; and (2) they seem designed for more general situations, rather than this split-second one.

Thank you very much,

Apuleius