I think a lot of babies don't like getting their diaper changed even if they aren't otherwise opinionated. I see my friends' babies do the same thing as yours and mine so I think it must be a normal stage. And I don't see toddlers pulling this same stunt so I assume the babies are going to grow out of it.  I think we just have to wait.

I can tell you from my experience that nothing works so don't work too hard at trying to cure this! I used to try every trick in the book to get my son to cooperate with a diaper change - yelling at him, distracting him, playing with him, bribing him - I could have saved myself all the trouble because he didn't stop having diaper-tantrums until he turned 2. One day it just stopped! My advice to you is wait it out.

I agree that you shouldn't take this stage too seriously. Don't get involved in the struggle as if it's your way or her way and only one of you can "win." Rather, try to stay calm and collected yet firm. Without saying much, hold her down and change her diaper when you need to. She'll feel secure with your calm energy and will probably grow out of this particular tantrum a little quicker. If she is very strong willed and uncooperative in general, you might try giving her the Bach Remedy "Vine." Drop two drops of it into her water, milk or juice 4 times a day. You'll probably find that she becomes more easy-going and less reactive. Bach Flowers are totally safe for babies (and everyone else). As far as behavioral management of strong-willed babies and kids, YOU need to model flexibility and ease. Let her have as much as you can and sink YOUR heels in only when the issue really matters. You don't want to be butting heads all day with a strong-willed child. Pick your battles and handle those calmly, firmly and quietly.  Good luck,   Sarah Chana