Haha I've done that for whining kids too and it's worked! This child however is not whining, she is flat out crying and quite obviously distressed.
I've spoken to mum a lot this afternoon as today was terrible. The tv thing has come from home and she has held her hands up to it. She has said its typically on all day for background noise. I've said that perhaps at this point if that's all it is, switch to a cable or online radio station and limit her to a set amount of shows per day. I also suggested having a replacement safe place where she can teach her to go if she is sad or unhappy. She has a play tent that she is going to set up and talk to her about while she is in good spirits. She also spoke with her husband this afternoon and she has called child and family services for her area for some support. I hope with these moves we can help things improve. TV is off tomorrow...period. Not looking forward to the entire mornings spent with a kid standing and crying. I know this is behavioural, but it's not a temper tantrum. She withdraws and its debilitating for her. She can't follow direction from that point on even with adult led activities. I'm hoping the professional who gets involved can help at home and offer resources for me too.