When anger is taken out on people, animals, or objects, it may be considered aggression.

Types of Aggression

Aggression can be a reaction to something or can be planned.

Aggression and Mental Illness

The relationship between mental illness and aggression is complex.

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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.

Managing Aggression

There are various approaches to managing aggressive behaviors independent of an underlying condition.

They may perform aneurological examinationto look for underlying conditions.

They may refer you to a mental health professional for a psychological assessment.

A mental health professional will conduct a psychological interview and assessment.

Treatment

Treatment for aggressive behavior depends on its cause.

Your provider may recommend medication, therapy, or a combination of both.

Genetics, environment, mental health disorders, and social factors impact aggressive behavior.

There are strategies to control anger so it doesn’t turn into aggression.

American Psychological Association.APA dictionary of psychology: aggression.

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Rosell DR, Siever LJ.The neurobiology of aggression and violence.CNS Spectrums.

2018;19:98-103. doi:10.1016/j.copsyc.2017.03.014

HelpGuide.org.Anger management.

American Psychiatric Association.Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.

American Psychiatric Association; 2013.