Anger Management
Intermittent Explosive Disorder
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 recurrent aggressive outbursts are manifested by the following:
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Occur twice weekly, on average, for a period of 3 months.
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Are out of proportion to the event or incident that triggered them.
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Are impulsive and not premeditated.
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Cause marked distress for the person.
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Cause problems at work or home.
It is important to note that these aggressive behaviors are not planned, they are impulsive and anger based, and are not committed to achieve an objective (e.g., money, power or intimidation). They happen rapidly after being provoked and typically do not last longer than 30 minutes. These outbursts must be associated with subjective distress or social or occupational dysfunction. Individuals with intermittent explosive disorder tend to have poor life satisfaction and a lower quality of life.
In order to meet diagnostic criteria for intermittent explosive disorder, affected individuals must be at least 6 years old or the developmental equivalent. However, this disorder is usually first observed in late childhood or adolescence. While much less studied in children and adolescents, intermittent explosive disorder is also common in young individuals and has a reported lifetime prevalence of 7.8%.
Many risk factors have been identified with the development of Intermittent Explosive Disorder, such as: being male, young, unemployed, single, having lower levels of education, and being victim of physical or sexual violence. Intermittent explosive disorder is associated with anxiety and bipolar disorders. Individuals with this disorder have higher risks of developing substance use disorders.
Treatment typically involves cognitive behavioral therapy focusing on changing thoughts related to anger and aggression and developing relaxation and coping skills. Sometimes, depending on a person's age and symptoms, medication may be helpful.
www.psychiatry.org