How To Deal With Childhood Aggression

These days, aggressive behavior and violence is something that is a bit common in everyday life. What is really disturbing is the aggression in childhood, which has long been a problem among the younger members of the household.

In this article, we will look at childhood aggression, as well as how to deal with it.

What is aggression in childhood?

This type of behavior occurs when a child wants to cause harm, either physical or mental,  to another child, the parents, or anyone else. It is, in general, intentional and manifests itself in the form of kicks, screams, scratches, pushes, the gang and other similar actions.

Aggression in childhood can cause problems in a child’s personal life and school life, as well as problems when it comes to socializing with others and appropriate behaviors in a group.

Many times,  this aggression is an external indication of an internal problem. It has to do with reflecting a poor emotional adjustment in the child. The emotions the child experiences are externalized in the form of anger and rage.

How to avoid aggression in childhood

Aggressive behavior in children is based on a learned behavior and it can be modified  with proper treatment. To correct this type of behavior, it is important that parents and educators (if there is a problem at school) work together to supervise the child.

Under no circumstances should corporal punishment be used to treat a child’s aggression. This kind of discipline can make a child’s behavior worse.

In other words,  corporal punishment has the unfortunate consequence that the child imitates this aggression  while also increasing his or her anxiety.

The way to deal with this kind of aggression is to remain patient and persistent,  at all times.

It is common for parents to feel helpless when they experience this kind of behavior in their children. However, there are some important steps you can take to make sure your child improves.

1. Identify the problem

The first step is essential to curbing aggression in childhood. Every parent needs to identify the problem  and understand what kind of aggression the child is experiencing.

It is important to be objective and specific when identifying this type of behavior. This will allow parents – through the following steps – to be firm in their reaction.

2. Determine the regularity of the aggression

Another fundamental step in the process of combating aggressive behavior is to  notice how many times a week the child responds in this way. 

Furthermore, it is important to  identify the situations that trigger the aggression. That way, the causes, circumstances, and reactions that surround the behavior can be properly understood.

3. Limit the behavior

Once the “how” and “why” of these actions have been established, then you need to set goals to change the child’s behavior for the better. On the one hand, you need to limit the aggressive behavior. On the other hand, you need to reinforce alternative reactions to each situation. 

One way you can make this happen is  by reducing any contact the child may have with aggressive role models. Parents also need to show their children different ways to resolve conflicts. It includes speaking, reasoning and establishing rules.

Likewise,  setting an example is an invaluable tool. When children see older people solving problems in a constructive and determined way, it is easier for them to imitate an appropriate model.

4. Evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment

Once an action plan has been selected, it needs to be implemented with perseverance and patience.

To ensure better results,  it is important to communicate the plan to the other adults in the child’s life. As a result, they will also help combat aggression.

It is crucial that parents respond to aggression in childhood with a positive attitude. They need to identify what triggers this behavior. At the same time, they also need to try to improve their child’s behavior through sound practice, conversation, and by setting good examples.