Disordered Aggression and Violence in the United States

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Epidemiology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) and related aggressive disorders represent significant public health concerns.
• Understanding the prevalence and correlates of recurrent aggressive behavior is crucial for developing effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence and correlates of DSM-5 intermittent explosive disorder and related aggressive disorders in the United States.
• To assess aggression severity, property damage, injury to others, intimate partner assault, weapon use, and treatment utilization among individuals with recurrent aggressive behavior.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of community survey data from the National Comorbidity Survey-Replication (NCS-R) and Adolescent Supplement (NCS-AS).
• Involved 10,148 adolescents and 9,282 adults, with recurrent aggressive behavior defined as 3 serious aggressive outbursts in a year.
• Assessed various aspects of aggression, including severity, consequences, and treatment seeking.

Main Results:

• Approximately 17% of adolescents and 8% of adults reported recurrent aggressive outbursts within a year.
• Individuals with recurrent aggressive behavior exhibited higher aggression and impulsivity compared to controls.
• They were more likely to engage in intimate partner assault, use weapons threateningly, and face legal arrests.

Conclusions:

• Recurrent aggressive behavior is prevalent in both adolescents and adults, carrying substantial risks to individuals and their environment.
• Despite the availability of effective treatments, the majority of affected individuals do not seek or receive professional help.
• Screening for aggressive behavior in clinical practice is essential for early identification and facilitating access to necessary treatment.