I think the best way is to completely ignore the tantrum and your wife should do the same. There is no fun in having a temper tantrum if no one is paying attention. Just walk out of the room until the child calms down. Nobody knows what causes it. Many people think it is caused by gas pains or that the baby is just stressed.
Some people think it is caused by baby migraines.
The good thing about colic is it only lasts three to four months and goes away by itself. There are many ways to treat colic, such as carrying the baby around, and if the baby is on a milk formula, try a soy formula. Just remember that these babies are usually healthy, fat babies. They drive their parents crazy, but it all clears up. That depends on the age.