Violent children are often dangerous to those around them, because they are often emotionally unstable and lash out in violent, and sometimes unpredictable, ways. But many times, a child's violence can be traced back to an instigating source. According to University of Michigan psychologist Rowell Huesmann, who conducted research studies in the 1960s, 59 percent of children who watched an above-average amount of violence on television were also involved in an above-average number of aggressive or violent acts later in their lives. Research studies have shown, according to AACAP.org, that violent behavior can be reduced and sometimes prevented altogether if risk factors, like television, are significantly reduced or eliminated.
Step 1
Identify the cause of the problem. If your child engages in acts of violence, book an appointment with the child psychologist to identify the issue. There are numerous possibilities as to why your child is acting out, including attention deficit disorder, attention deficit hyperactive disorder or emotional trauma and difficulty in expressing it. Don't assume you know what's causing your child's bouts of violence--find out before proceeding to address the issue.
Step 2
Be aware of the role you play in your child's violence issues. Sometimes children act out as a result of their home environment, including their parents. It could be that in order to stop your child's acts of violence, you must change the way you deal with your child.
Step 3
Present a unified front. Do not argue or disagree in front of your child, and do not provide anything that might suggest you two aren't in total agreement. Children will try to use this division to get out of punishments or work one against the other, and it can be detrimental to both the healing process and your marriage.
Step 4
Identify the things your child likes or covets--whether it is a toy, candy or television--and use it as collateral when handing out punishments. Every child has something they will work hard to gain or maintain access to, according to DrPhil.com, and these should be used when grounding your child or administering other punishment.
Step 5
Stay calm. Don't give your child the satisfaction of getting under your skin. Provide a calm, level presence to your child and keep control of the situation.
Step 6
Do not resort to violence. This kind of behavior will reinforce to your child that violence is the solution to problems. It won't correct your child's behavior, and it could get you into legal trouble.
