Control Aggressive Behavior In Children

Aggressive behavior at an early age can lead to problems later on. All children need a certain level of aggression. Without it they are likely to become targets for other children. If your child gets angry from time to time it is nothing to worry about either. Anger and aggression start to become problems when a child attacks another child or adult. This is likely to be shown by biting and hitting. There are three main causes of aggression in children. These are frustration, attention seeking and being territorial.  To help you overcome the problems of aggression in a child here are our top 10 tips: 

Watch for triggers 

Try and work out if there are triggers that regularly cause aggressive behavior. It can be as simple as children regularly arguing and becoming aggressive over what television program to watch. 

Be careful how you react 

If you react to any problems in the home by shouting or hitting out, your children will learn from you that this is acceptable behavior at stressful times. Therefore if they are in a situation that they find frustrating they are likely to react in a similar, aggressive manner. 

Discuss appropriate and in appropriate behavior 

For example explain that when they hit or bite it hurts and that other children are unlikely to want to play with them in the future. 

Give attention and show affection 

All children need attention and affection. This is especially true for older children with younger siblings. A first born child gets used to a certain amount of attention and affection. 

Monitor TV programs and play 

Although the effect of television on children can be overstated there could be a link between your child's aggression and what they watch on television. 

 Monitor the influence of friends 

If you have always lived in a quiet, peaceful environment then the introduction of a new friend can have an impact on the way your child behaves. 

Give warning time 

Most children get frustrated and can show aggression if they are busy playing and you suddenly tell them it is time to go. Although it is not always possible try to give them warning that it is nearly time to stop playing. 

Provide alternative toys and stimulus 

If you sense a child is getting board or frustrated with what they are doing be ready to suggest trying something different. 

Encourages a child to discuss problems 

The more you talk to a child the easier they will find it to establish their own vocabulary and be able to express their frustrations verbally. In quiet periods explain to your child how they can resolve their differences through discussion and negotiation rather than through hitting out. 

Praise good behavior 

If you have taken your child somewhere and they have behaved well or if they have had a good day at home then praise them. This will make your child feel good and want to behave in a positive manner more often. 

Mrs. Anita Chaudhary

(Clinical Psychologist)

Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi