The primary driver behind child aggression often lies in a specific physiological factor. This perspective was shared with socialbites.ca by a psychiatrist who serves as chief physician at a psychiatric clinic and leads the Marcel Doditsa Child Psychiatry Clinic. The article explains when it is important to seek medical advice for aggression in a child.
Experts note that there are many scientific models that classify the different types of child aggression. In everyday practice, specialists distinguish aggression by how it expresses itself rather than by trying to fit it into one single category.
“Physical aggression shows up when a child uses physical strength to hurt someone, often a younger child,” the clinician explained. “Expressive aggression is visible in both spoken and unspoken ways. This includes gestures, body posture, facial expression, speaking style, and tone of voice. Usually the child may not recognize the aggression or may even deny it. Verbal aggression appears as disagreements, manipulation, and insults.”
The doctor emphasized that the leading cause of children’s aggression is a physiological imbalance in the brain. Specifically, there is a mismatch between excitation and inhibition in the cerebral cortex that governs emotions.
“When the excitation process dominates, it reflects immaturity in the brain areas responsible for emotional regulation. The child struggles to manage emotions independently,” he noted.
There are situations where a child psychiatrist should be involved. For instance, if a child shows adjustment difficulties, persistent anxiety, or a lack of self control along with frequent emotional outbursts, professional evaluation can be beneficial.
Signs that may warrant caution include withdrawal, lack of empathy, aggressive behavior toward peers or animals, and fragile self-control. The clinician also pointed out ongoing fears and phobias, repetitive compulsive actions, self-harm behaviors such as pinching or scratching, and ongoing finger biting. These patterns may signal a need for support from a mental health professional.
It is important to remember that for preschoolers and school-age children, mischief and boundary testing are common parts of development. Aggression can be a natural response when a child experiences a sense of injustice or unfairness. What matters is the pattern and duration. Regular aggressive behavior over a long period without a clear reason should prompt a closer look from caregivers and professionals.
One critical concern with unmanaged aggression is its potential to contribute to mental health issues and to hinder healthy social integration. If aggression becomes persistent and unaddressed, it can relate to broader behavioral problems that affect learning, peer relationships, and overall functioning in daily life. In some cases, untreated patterns may evolve into more serious personality-related challenges later on, underscoring the importance of early identification and appropriate intervention. Marked guidance from clinicians can help families navigate these challenges and reduce long-term risks. It is often a sign to seek a comprehensive assessment rather than to dismiss the behavior as mere bad mood or a phase.
In discussions about aggression in children, it is useful to consider the broader context. Cultural expectations, environmental stressors, and family dynamics can all influence how a child expresses frustration or anger. Support strategies may include consistent routines, clear boundaries, Emotion coaching, and, when appropriate, therapy or counseling. With informed help, many children learn to regulate emotions more effectively and build healthier relationships with others.
For readers seeking more in-depth guidance, researchers and clinicians advocate a balanced approach that blends behavioral strategies with medical insight when necessary. Real progress often comes from early recognition, compassionate care, and tailored plans that fit the child’s unique needs. Marked notes from healthcare professionals provide clarity for families pursuing the right path for their child. Attribution: clinical insights shared by psychiatrists and pediatric mental health experts.