Violent behavior in children can be concerning for parents, caregivers and school personnel. Violent children can create havoc in your home life as well as be problematic for other children that they are around. Important warning signs for violent behavior in children can be numerous. If you are concerned about your child behaving in a way that seems violent, speak with your child's pediatrician immediately.
Anger
Anger can be an important warning sign that your child may resort to violent behavior. According to Healthy Place, a mental health information website for consumers, toddlers and preschool children may have aggressive outbursts or temper tantrums for no apparent reason. Healthy Place reports that older, school-aged children may have excessive reactions to disappointment or criticism that may result in severe temper tantrums, angry outbursts or even vengeful acts. In addition, Healthy Place states that a school-age child may have a problem with getting into frequent fights with other children at school or in the neighborhood. Some children may become angry because they are pressured by their parents for academic success. According to the National School Safety and Security Service, pressure to succeed in academics or a fear or failure can foster anger.
Impulsive and Fearless Behavior
A child with impulsive tendencies can also be at risk for violent behavior. According to Dr. Kimberly Young at Healthy Place, a school-age child with impulsive behavior will often disrupt classroom activities. The child may exhibit impulsive behavior at very odd times, including family functions or during church. According to the Encyclopedia of Mental Disorders, these impulsive acts may include severe aggression and may even later be diagnosed as a condition known as intermittent explosive disorder. Preschool-age children may exhibit behaviors that seem impulsive and fearless. Children who exhibit fearless behaviors may not fully understand the implications that this type of behavior has on their own safety or the safety of others.
Lack of Attachment
Toddlers with no attachment to adults in their lives, such as parents or grandparents, are at a greater risk for becoming violent in the future. According to Healthy Place, a toddler or preschool-age child who does not like to be touched, does not look for parents when they are not around or does not return to their parents when they are in strange surroundings may be at risk for violent behavior. In addition, lack of attachment can also apply to the lack of friends. According to Healthy Place, if you notice that your school-age child has no friends or is being rejected by other children, the child may be at risk for violent behavior. Another form of lack of attachment can come from the adults themselves. National School Safety and Security Service reports that physical and emotional abuse by parents and adults can cause the child to detach from caregivers. In addition, you may have a child who sees no benefit of having friends and does not care that other children do not like him. If you see this occurring with your child, speak with your pediatrician about your concerns immediately.
