Physicians and researchers from the Mayo Clinic point out that people who display aggressive behavior typically disregard the opinions and feelings of others. Common symptoms of aggressive behavior include agitation, a feeling of being wronged and placing blame on others. In some cases, it can lead to hostility and aggression. Recognize the signs so that you can act accordingly.
Back Off
Aggressive behavior may be a sign that a person is under extreme stress. The findings of a study published in the October 2004 issue of "Behavioral Neuroscience" suggest that the same hormones that respond to stress may also play a role in aggressive behavior. How you react to a person's behavior can help keep the situation from escalating out of control. Sometimes it is best just to back off and give the person some space. He may begin to think rationally again after an opportunity to calm down.
Avoid Confrontation
Many times you can defuse the anger by remaining calm and reasonable yourself. Speak in a low, soft tone. Keeping things in perspective offers both of you the chance to redirect your interaction. APESMA Professional Women's Network notes that people can be influenced by the response they get from others. Empathize with the person instead of feeding into the anger or fueling it more. Be conscious of your own body language and keep it relaxed, because that is also part of the message you send.
Listen
Often a person uses aggression as a way to vent. Give the person a chance to talk out her feelings. She may calm down once she realizes that you are willing to listen. An article published in the Summer 2005 issue of "The New Social Worker" recommends being respectful and waiting until the person pauses before you talk. Try to find out what might be bothering her. Tell her you are sorry that she feels she has been treated unfairly. Sometimes people simply get frustrated; therefore, giving the person some attention may be enough to alleviate the anger.
Keep Your Own Composure
While some people do not overtly display aggressive hostility, they make their anger known in other ways. An individual may use nonverbal cues such as glaring, staring or rolling the eyes. A passive-aggressive person may use voice tone or sarcasm to get his message across. In this kind of situation, it might be best to ignore the behaviors and not take the bait. The American Psychological Association reminds us that although some degree of anger is both normal and healthy, anger that is allowed to get out of control can become destructive. Acknowledge the person's concerns and express your desire to help in any way you can. Remain calm and don't let the person know that his behavior is unsettling to you. You can think more clearly by keeping your composure. Overreacting may only trigger your own anger, sending the negative message that the other person is looking for.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Being Assertive---Reduce Stress, Communicate Better
- American Psychological Association: Hormones, Stress and Aggression---A Vicious Cycle
- The New Social Worker: Safety First---Paying Heed to and Preventing Professional Risks
- American Psychological Association: Controlling Anger Before It Controls You
- APESMA: Dealing with Difficult People
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