Intermittent Explosive Disorder
What is Intermittent Explosive Disorder ?
Intermittent explosive disorder involves repeated, sudden bouts of impulsive, aggressive, violent behavior or angry verbal outbursts. The reactions are too extreme for the situation. Road rage, domestic abuse, throwing or breaking objects, or other temper tantrums may be symptoms of intermittent explosive disorder.
These explosive outbursts, which occur off and on, cause major distress. They can harm relationships and cause problems at work or school. They can also result in problems with the law. Intermittent explosive disorder is a long-term condition that can go on for years. But the severity of outbursts may lessen with age. Treatment involves talk therapy and medicine to help you control your aggressive impulses.
Symptoms
- Rage
- Irritability
- More tension and energy
- Racing thoughts
- Tingling
- Shaking
- Fast or pounding heartbeat
- Chest tightness
- Temper tantrums
- Long, angry speeches
- Heated arguments
- Shouting
Cause
Intermittent explosive disorder can begin in childhood, after the age of 6 years, or during the teenage years. It’s more common in younger adults than in older adults. The exact cause of the disorder is not known. It may be caused by the living environment and learned behaviors, genetics, or differences in the brain. Living environment. Most people with this condition grew up in families where explosive behavior and verbal and physical abuse were common. Children who see or go through this type of violence at an early age are more likely to have these same traits as they grow up. Genetics. Genetics may play a role. There could be a gene related to the tendency to react more easily to stress. This gene may be passed down from parents to children. Differences in how the brain works. There may be differences in the structure, function, and chemistry of the brain in people with intermittent explosive disorder compared with those of the brains of people who do not have the disorder.
Risk Factors
These factors raise your risk of developing intermittent explosive disorder history of physical abuse. Being abused as a child, being bullied, or going through other disturbing, shocking, or painful events can raise the risk of having intermittent explosive disorder. History of other mental health conditions. Having antisocial personality disorder or borderline personality disorder may raise the risk of also having intermittent explosive disorder. So can having other disorders that include disruptive behaviors, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Problems with alcohol and drugs can also be a risk factor.
When to see a Doctor
If you recognize your behavior in the description of intermittent explosive disorder, talk with your doctor or other health care professional about treatment options. You can also ask for a referral to a mental health professional.