Dealing with an aggressive child can be extremely frustrating and difficult. Anger in children is common, and there are several factors play a role in making a child angry and aggressive. Children usually become angry due to situational circumstances, i.e., the child is tired or bored, so he becomes more irritable, or when the child feels frustrated for not getting what he wants.

Anger in children is considered normal if outbursts are few and far in between. If the child, however, has temper tantrums frequently and tends to harm himself or others when angry, this can may indicate an underlying condition that may be causing anger outbursts. Some of the mental health conditions and behavior disorders that can cause anger issues in children are:

Intermittent Explosive Disorder

Intermittent explosive disorder is a condition characterized by sudden anger outburst and aggression that occur for no apparent reason, or occur in response to a minor circumstance that the reaction is out of proportion.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder

Oppositional defiant disorder is a behavior disorder in which the child seems to always oppose, defy, and possibly act hostile towards figures of authority (parents and other adults).

Conduct Disorder

Children and teenagers with conduct disorder persistently act in a disruptive and potentially aggressive manner towards others, and they are reluctant to follow rules.

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder goes beyond normal mood swings, and it is characterized by irritability, anger, and frequent anger outburst. Children with the disorder have an irritable or angry mood most of the day almost all days.

Mood Disorders

Mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder, can cause the child to become irritable and angry, which often lead to frequent tantrums and potentially violent and aggressive behavior.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders in children can also cause irritability, anger and aggressive behavior. Anxiety disorders that may affect children include generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and separation anxiety.

Cognitive and Communication Problems

Disorders that affect the cognitive abilities of children can cause frustration and anxiety, which can turn into anger and aggressive behavior. Communication problems, such as autism, can also frustrate children.

ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition characterized by impulsivity and poor decision-making skills. Children with ADHD may not act aggressively on purpose, but their behavior may be seen as aggressive.

It is important for parents to seek professional help for their child’s anger issues if they believe they are out of the normal range of children their age.