In addition, factors that cause stress such as divorce or death increase the likelihood that a teenager will have aggressive tendencies (Peterson and Sheldon 2006). Additionally maternal depression, substance abuse or maternal anxiety can all lead to aggressive behaviors in teenagers (Peterson and Sheldon 2006).
According to Peterson and Sheldon (2006) teenage aggression can also be linked to neuropsychiatric disorders. In fact the authors asserts that
"Persistent aggressive behavior is a common feature in many neuropsychiatric disorders and is the most common reason for referral to a child and adolescent mental health clinic [1]. Neurological features associated with aggression include low overall IQ and relative deficits in verbal learning, memory, and fluency [2]. Deficits in executive functioning and working memory are also common [3] and may be especially pronounced with co-occurring attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)."
The aggressive behavior can involve lashing out at family members, friends or strangers. The behavior is often associated with violent acts such as physical and sexual assault. Teenage aggression is an issue that parents and all adults who work with children should be concerned about. Such behavior can lead to life long problems for the aggressor and potential victims. As such several treatments have been developed to remedy teen aggression. These treatments will be discussed in the next section of this discussion.
Treatment for Adolescent Aggression
Teen aggression is a situation that can and should be treated. One of the most prevalent forms of is anger management. This particular tactic shows teens suffering form aggression issues how to channel there energy in a direction that is positive and not aggressive. According to Feindler (2005), " In order to prevent an aggressive reaction to a triggering stimulus, it is necessary for youths to manage their anger arousal and process the interpersonal exchange such that a more prosocial response is exhibited. The anger management treatment protocols focus on the three hypothesized components of the anger experience: physiological responses, cognitive processes, and behavioral responses (Feindler)."
In addition in cases where anger consist of impulsive thoughts, cognitive distortions, or heightened physiological arousal the anger management intervention should focus on assisting the teenager in developing skills related to self-control. For instance, the author explains,...
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The extreme power of this new cultural tool is the very nature -- it depends on nothing but an electronic connection. it, like many things in the modern world, is instantaneous, satisfying the 21st century need to have both dependence and independence based on our own decision or whim. Therein lies the confusion for many -- just how real is an electronic friendship that can exist without really "knowing"
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Help her to realize that having a child may interfere with her future career, but that many mothers have successful home and job lives. There are an infinite number of options, and a determined teenager can find a way to success. Do not skirt around the issues of danger, however, as teenagers are more likely to miscarry or have other complications with their pregnancy such as premature labor and
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