Aggressive behaviour in humans can have several forms and result in physical or verbal harm to self, others, or objects (including animals). Within the usual range of human behaviour lies defensive aggression, while impulsive or non-premeditated are considered pathological.
More than on an isolated basis, the tendency to behave aggressively is a behavioural trait developed in childhood and pervasive through adulthood. Often seen from the age of 6 years, Intermittent explosive disorder refers to several distinct episodes of impulsive aggression that can cause harm to others or property. Such acts are often exaggerated and disproportionate to the psychosocial stressor causing distress. These aggressive impulses can be very hard to control and result in a disbalance in work-life & hindrance in interpersonal relationships.
Studies have shown that intermittent explosive disorder is almost twice as likely in males than females. This disorder’s symptoms start to appear before puberty, peak in adolescence, and less likely to be reported in individuals over 40 years.
Symptoms:
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Inability to constrain aggressive impulses.
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Frequent outbursts of aggression in either physical or verbal form, which is impulsive/unplanned.
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Verbal aggression constitutes temper tantrums, arguments, fights or abuse.
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Physical aggression refers to the destruction of property, physical assault/harm to others or animals.
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Magnified acts of aggression are larger than the stressor or provocation.
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Outbursts causing financial or legal difficulties as well as problems maintaining relationships.
One should be cautious and consider intervention if these symptoms prevail for 3-12 months.
Treatment:
Recognising the signs and symptoms from an early age is beneficial to treatment outcome. The interventions aim to curb impulsivity, aggression and instil healthier ways to communicate anger.
The following options can consolidate treatment:
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Medication
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Therapy
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Social skills training
IED symptoms often resemble that of bipolar and other impulse control disorders; hence medication such as mood stabilisers, antipsychotics, and beta-blockers can be useful in managing this disorder. Professionals may also recommend cognitive behaviour therapy and behaviour management therapy. These can help the individual be more aware of the anger and consider different ways of responding. Often involving others, especially close ones, may help the therapeutic process. Group therapy or family therapy can help bring balance in life. Equipped counsellors can also provide social skills training which helps identify body language and sharpen negotiation skills.
Importance of Professional Counseling: A friend or family member may listen to you, but they aren’t professionally, technically qualified or experienced to offer you professional advice. If you wish you can contact us at MindTribe to receive help from our team of expert psychologists.
About MindTribe.in.
MindTribe Founder Dr. Prerna Kohli, India’s eminent psychologist, established the company to leverage the strength of the online to make counseling affordable and accessible to everyone. MindTribe provides counseling, workshops, support groups, forums, and eLearning.
About the Author.
Gurbaani Bhalla is a psychologist at MindTribe.in. You can learn more about her by clicking here
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of MindTribe.in, the Founders, or management team.
Acknowledgement: All images used are open source and from Unsplash.