Aggression is primarily caused by an interaction of multiple biological and environmental factors rather than just two specific causes. However, the two most common underlying psychological causes or triggers are often identified as frustration and social learning.
Biological, psychological, and socioeconomic influences must be considered when discussing the etiology of aggression. Biological causes include genetics, medical and psychiatric diseases, neurotransmitters, hormones, substance use, and medications.
The most common form of aggressive behavior reported is physical aggression; which includes behaviors enacted to harm others physically (e.g., hitting, biting, and kicking) that is distinguished from verbal aggression; which includes actions to hurt another with spoken words (e.g., screaming and name calling) ( ...
Examples of Precipitating Factors
The causes behind aggressive behavior can include (but are not limited to): Fear, anxiety, stress. Unmet physical needs (hunger, silence) or emotional needs (recognition, love) Traumatic experiences.
Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is a disorder associated with frequent impulsive anger outbursts or aggression—such as temper tantrums, verbal arguments, and fights. The observed behaviors result in physical assaults towards others or animals, property destruction, or verbal aggression.
The majority of research on anger treatment has focused on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). In CBT, patients learn to identify unhelpful or negative thought patterns and change inaccurate beliefs.
Aggression can be verbal or physical. There are four types of aggressive behavior: accidental, expressive, instrumental, and hostile. It is important to understand these behaviors that children may display so your responses are effective.
Remember that the person is probably reacting to an issue or a culmination of issues that actually have nothing to do with you, so it's best that you don't take it personally. It also helps to stay neutral and remain calm. assessing the situation – Don't interrupt and don't respond until you have both calmed down.
Facial indicators: staring - frowning - rubbing forehead - reddened complexion. Raised voice. Aggressive body language/actions - pointing - clenched fists hitting things – throwing magazines, pens and other objects down in frustration. Words expressing threats - including swearing.
Repeated loss of temper. Frequent physical fighting. Vandalism or property damage. Increased use of drugs and alcohol.
Aggression is caused in large part by the negative emotions that we experience as a result of the aversive events that occur to us and by our negative thoughts that accompany them (Berkowitz & Heimer, 1989).
From the perspective of evolutionary psychology, males are expected to be more aggressive than females because of the greater pressure of intrasexual competition (Wilson et al., 2009). It is generally regarded that males are more physically aggressive than females.
There are actually a few reasons we become aggressive, which also help to explain why some people are more aggressive than others:
Hugh Wagner, a behavioral psychologist concerned with the biology of aggression, has identified three types of aggression: offensive aggression, defensive aggression, and predatory aggression. Offensive aggression occurs when the aggressor initiates aggressive behavior against one or more nonaggressors.
While anger is a feeling/emotion, aggression is the behaviour or action taken that is hostile, destructive and/or violent. It can be physical assault, throwing objects, property damage, self-harming behaviours or verbal threats or insults.
Tips for Calming an Angry Person
10 Things to Never, Ever Say to Someone Who's Angry
An effective method to achieve this is by practising the three R's of Anger Management: Recognise, Reflect, and Respond. This mindful and practical approach doesn't shame you for feeling angry. Instead, it empowers you to pause, explore, and act in ways that support your values, not just your impulses.
The relationship between aggression and mental illness is complex. While aggression isn't a mental illness on its own, it's often a symptom of underlying mental health conditions.
Aggressive is a character trait that is defined by a tendency to be forceful, pushy, and confrontational in one's actions and interactions with others. It can manifest as a desire to dominate or control others, or to achieve one's goals through assertiveness, intimidation, or even violence.
Some common synonyms of aggressive are assertive, militant, and self-assertive. While all these words mean "obtrusively energetic especially in pursuing particular goals," aggressive implies a disposition to dominate often in disregard of others' rights or in determined and energetic pursuit of one's ends.
Practice relaxation skills
Practice deep-breathing exercises, imagine a relaxing scene, or repeat a calming word or phrase, such as "Take it easy." You might also listen to music, write in a journal or do a few yoga poses — whatever it takes to encourage relaxation.
If you've experienced situations in the past that made you feel angry, you might still be coping with those angry feelings now. Especially if you weren't able to safely express your anger at the time. Those situations could include abuse, trauma, racism or bullying (either as a child or more recently as an adult).