Why do ADHD Children Have a Problem Controlling their Aggression?

Why do ADHD Children Have a Problem Controlling their Aggression?
Page content

ADHD Aggression: Why does it happen?

An ADHD child is naturally aggressive and impulsive, a combination that poses a great challenge for parents and teachers alike. The simplest things, mundane frustrations or irritations for non-ADHD children and adults, are blown-up infuriation for kids with ADHD and would usually trigger their impulsive aggressiveness. This is exhibited through verbal threats, foul language, yelling and talking incessantly, throwing of objects, stomping of feet, waving of arms, and pursuing the person who is the “attacker” or “interrupter” in their eyes. Such a pursuit occurs when the other person decides to disengage himself from the argument. The ADHD child would surely follow and continue his physical and verbal aggression.

Why do ADHD children have a problem controlling their aggression? The neurochemical make-up in their brains is different from that of ordinary people. ADHD children tend to be impulsive, acting first before thinking. The area of their brain responsible for controlling aggression is not functioning properly, hence they are not able to stop at once no matter how many times they are told or even scolded. Furthermore, there is already an abnormally high level of excitability and tendency for violent behavior present in the first place. Once these kids are bombarded with even a slight disturbance or annoyance, and especially a series of stimulants similar to these, then they just cannot help but react immediately in the natural way for them— through aggressive behavior.

Imagine yourself trying to drink from your water bottle while on a very rough and rocky road or while riding a swing. It is very probable that some of the water would spill, and it would take a massive amount of concentration on your part just to take a sip from the bottle. This is how ADHD children normally feel when focused on something, not like those who do not have such a condition. Although they have the ability to give their complete attention to a video game they are playing or a TV show they are watching, there is an irritation underneath that can easily be amplified at the smallest interruption. They then tend to lash out at the one who caused the interruption.

ADHD Aggression: How can it be controlled?

When faced with an ADHD child’s angry outburst, the parent or teacher must stay calm. Utmost patience and understanding are needed. The usual parenting disciplinary strategies will not be effective during these episodes. These children will not listen to reason or to anything else. In such case, it is best that you do not take verbal reactions personally. You must be careful not to let comments like “I wish I were dead!” or “I never want to come to school again!” or “I hope I had a different mom!” get to you. It is best to let it pass instead of addressing the reaction or becoming defensive. These responses will merely agitate them further, so it is recommended that you ignore these and simply stay on the topic at hand.

One of the most effective ways of controlling ADHD aggression as well as impulsivity is the use of behavior modification and therapy, combined with proper dietary measures and homeopathic remedies. Standard medication can control behavior only temporarily and usually have side effects too. On the other hand, a consistent and continuous behavior modification and therapy program will lead to long-term positive results. Moreover, it is better to pick natural homeopathic antidotes over common medicines because their proven ingredients—Hyoscyamus, Tuberculinum, and Arsen iod— do not only stifle the symptoms but also address the neurological unevenness that cause ADHD. There are no side effects too.

Through time, it is possible to suppress the symptoms and eventually lessen the violent tendencies of ADHD children so that they may live happier and more successful lives with their families and in accord with others too.

References

https://www.enotalone.com/article/4123.html

https://ezinearticles.com/?Important-Tips-to-Help-Control-ADHD-Impulsive-Aggression&id=2861122

https://www.articlesbase.com/adhd-articles/how-to-control-adhd-impulsive-aggression-in-children-1028352.html