This article will provide signs of aggression, discuss the potential causes, and discuss treatment options.
Signs of Aggression
There are different forms of aggression, and within each form, various ways a person can express aggression. Here are some examples:
Physical aggression: Hitting, biting, kickingVerbal aggression: Screaming or name-callingRelational aggression: Aggressive behavior with the intent of manipulating or damaging other people’s relationships, such as by spreading rumors or isolating someone from their friends
Each form of aggression can occur directly, with the person present, or indirectly by doing something to hurt their property, feelings, reputations, or relationships without them being there.
Proactive aggression is initiated by the person showing aggression and is related to a goal such as gaining justice, power, or another reward. Reactive aggression occurs in response to provocation or threat and is accompanied by strong emotions like anxiety, anger, or rage.
Causes of Aggression
Aggression is impacted by biological, social, environmental, and psychological factors.
Genetic Factors
Sometimes, genetic factors can predispose people to aggression. For example, some people are born with a relatively stable personality predisposition to respond to certain situations with aggression. This is known as “trait anger.” Certain genes have also been linked to a predisposition toward aggression.
Research also shows that people with aggression have less impulse and emotional control from a young age.
Other Factors
Additional factors that contribute to aggression include:
Exposure to violence (in person or virtually)HormonesLiving in a highly stressful environmentProvocationRejection from others
Aggression and Mental Illness
The relationship between mental illness and aggression is complex. Elements of aggression may be associated with certain untreated mental illnesses, including:
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Bipolar disorder Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Schizophrenia Substance use disorders
Some personality disorders are associated with higher levels of aggression, including:
Antisocial personality disorderBorderline personality disorder
How to Treat Aggression
Treatment for aggressive behavior depends on its cause. Your provider may recommend medication, therapy, or a combination of both. It is essential to consult a mental health or medical professional to receive an accurate diagnosis when mental health disorder symptoms accompany aggression.
Controlling Aggression
There are various approaches to treating aggressive behaviors independent of an underlying condition. Here are some ways to control aggression:
Know your triggers: If you know the situations that cause you to feel angry and notice the signs your body gives you that you’re about to react, you’ll have a better chance of stopping yourself before you become aggressive. Give yourself time and space to calm down: Rather than responding immediately, try leaving the situation. Walk away until you feel calm. Do something physically active: Aggression has a physical component to it. Use the energy from your anger for something healthier, like going for a walk, running, or lifting weights. Talk (or write) it out: If something makes you angry, try talking through the situation with a friend, loved one, or mental health professional. Sometimes, talking about your anger can help you feel calmer and avoid reacting aggressively. If there isn’t anyone you can talk to, try talking to yourself or writing your thoughts down.
Helping Others
It can be challenging to be around someone who becomes angry or aggressive. Though you can never take away someone’s anger, you may be able to take action to prevent the situation from worsening. Here are some tips:
Stay calm: Getting loud, losing control, or using threatening language can spark aggression in others. Give them space: Walk away if things get emotional; allow time for everyone to calm down. Set boundaries: Be clear about the type of behavior you will tolerate and consider what you will do if your boundaries are crossed.
Summary
Aggression can be proactive or reactive and may present as physical or psychological behavior intended to harm another person. Genetics, environment, mental health disorders, and social factors impact aggressive behavior. There are strategies to control anger, so it doesn’t turn into aggression. For some, however, seeking help from a mental health professional is the best approach and allows for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
A Word From Verywell
Although feeling angry is a completely normal emotion that everyone experiences, if you or someone you love finds this leading to aggression, it’s important to find ways to control it so nobody gets hurt. Aggression can feel out of control, but there are practical tools you can use to stay calm and express yourself in a healthy way.
