When Frustration Turns Into Aggression (intermittent Explosive Disorder)

Frustration is a universal emotion that we all know about. Like other negative pole emotions such as fear or sadness, it is necessary, since it is an indicator that shows that something is wrong and needs to be changed. Also, like the rest of the emotions, it can lead us to behave aggressively.

However, on this point, in the emotional state of frustration, it is necessary to identify the degree of intensity with which it manifests itself and the way in which it is regulated. Some people feel a disproportionate frustration with what triggers it and, moreover, respond in an exaggerated way, with outbursts of anger and aggression: they suffer from what is called “intermittent explosive disorder”.

It is a disorder where impulse control and emotional regulation are affected. In addition, we can say that it is characterized by two fundamental factors:

• The person with this disorder experiences recurring episodes in which outbursts of anger are frequent. States where lack of control and aggressiveness are manifested, with a threatening attitude that manifests itself through screams and, often, physical damage to the objects around it, or even to animals or people . It is not a one-off thing, but an uncontrolled emotional state that recurs over time.

• These episodes of anger are not proportional to the cause that triggers it. Usually, they are caused by a situation that the person interprets as negative, but that other people would easily handle, such as a small argument, a job that they do not like, a criticism of a co-worker … In some cases, the very cause can be imagined, such as feeling attacked in an argument when in reality there is no attack, or imaginary jealousy. Just as many “reasons” which underline a future aggressiveness.

The fact of not managing anger has devastating consequences on the life of those who suffer from this disorder as well as on that of those around them, since controlling aggressive impulses is something fundamental for living in society.

Most people with this disorder have problems in their personal relationships, whether they are family, romantic or friends. Living near a person who suffers from this disorder is to expose yourself to a state of continuous tension: it is not possible to predict when it will explode, so people around may end up wanting to distance themselves, for fear of explosions and their consequences.

This disorder also affects the working life of those who suffer from it. Since the person does not know how to control and prevent temper tantrums, frustrating situations that we all suffer from in the professional world, such as arguing with colleagues or criticizing superiors, will end up. trigger a fit of anger sooner or later, which generates a bad professional atmosphere and a possible dismissal if the situation is frequent.

Some studies indicate that aggressive outbursts are a consequence of a lack of serotonin in the brain, as well as damage to the prefrontal cortex. The prefrontal cortex is precisely the part of the brain linked to impulse control that takes charge of higher thought.

Even though it does suggest biological causes, another aspect to emphasize is that the majority of people who suffer from this disorder have lived in environments where one or more people exhibited outbursts of anger. This suggests that, in addition to a biological predisposition, the learning that we do from childhood to regulate our emotions is essential.

If a child grows up perceiving inordinate anger and violence as valid instruments to achieve goals, it is preferable that these behaviors be maintained over time and feed back. Minors need to witness examples of healthy conflict resolution and frustration management, where patience and dialogue prevail.

Additionally, it is important to help children understand and deal with their frustration, especially if they tend to complain through anger. If necessary, it may also be wise to seek the help of a professional. This will save this child many future problems.

It’s never too late to learn more about our emotions and how to deal with them. Through cognitive behavioral therapy, we are able to get these people to identify the first signals of the outburst, and so we can stop it before it grows and causes serious damage. To stop it, they are given a series of alternatives, such as getting out of the situation that caused the frustration. This exit can be mental (diverting attention) or physical.

Other aspects that can help are to practice relaxation techniques which lower the general state of anxiety and try to reduce the tone of general activation by channeling this energy through the practice of a sport. In some cases, medication that regulates serotonin can also help.

The important thing is that while realizing that we have a problem and seeking help, we can learn to deal with anger and improve our lives and the lives of those around us. This goes for people who have a disorder, but also for us in situations as extraordinary as they are.

Do you know someone who has this disorder or do you think you have it yourself? How does this affect your daily life?