AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR

All animals show a tendency to be aggressive at times, and human beings are no exception to the rule. It is important to understand the difference between assertive and aggressive behavior. To be assertive means standing up for yourself in an appropriate way. It is taking care of your own needs without hurting other people. Aggressive behavior goes on the attack, verbally or physically, without consideration for the needs or rights of others.

Parents are often frightened by how aggressive small children can be. This may occur with a new baby in the house. Older children may threaten to hurt or kill the baby. These statements should be taken seriously, to the extent of keeping a close eye on the children and setting limits with verbal threats. But in most cases, reassurance of the parents' love for the older child will help the problem disappear.

As children grow older, most learn to curb their aggressive behavior. Some children who do not, have problems that contribute to this, such as attention deficit disorder. Many times, environment is a factor. A child may imitate physical or verbal abuse seen within the family. Some research suggests that exposure to violent television shows and violent movies may teach children that violence is acceptable.

Danger signs in children and adolescents are:

fire-setting
torturing or killing animals and
threatening or hurting other children

If your child shows any of these signs, seek professional help immediately. Repeated incidents of fighting at school and gang membership are also danger signals. Ask your primary healthcare provider for a referral, or contact a school counselor for suggestions on how and where to get help.

Adolescents and adults who commit aggressive acts tend to have a history of violent behavior. This may be due to physical or environmental factors, or both. People are also more likely to commit violent acts when under the influence of alcohol or drugs, such as PCP. For example, experts estimate that at least 80 percent of all rapes occur when either the rapist or the victim is under the influence of alcohol.

When someone who has never been violent before suddenly shows a tendency to be aggressive, it is possible that it is due to physical factors. Chemical imbalance may be involved. Contact your primary healthcare provider for a full evaluation.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File MENT3139.RF2 VRS# 6701 Data Version 7.0