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Cognitive dysfunction and parent-directed aggression

Ashlee Curtis¹, Wayne Warburton², Travis Harries¹

¹School of Psychology, Deakin University, Australia; SEED Lifespan, Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Australia.

Current Opinion in Psychology

|January 6, 2026

Summary

Cognitive dysfunction may increase parent-directed aggression, particularly when linked to screen time, maltreatment, substance use, or neurodevelopmental conditions. Addressing cognitive issues is key for effective interventions.

Area of Science:

Psychology
Neuroscience
Child Development

Background:

Cognitive dysfunction is linked to aggression throughout life.
Its specific role in parent-directed aggression remains unclear.
Parent-directed aggression involves complex parent-child interdependence.

Purpose of the Study:

To explore the connection between cognitive dysfunction and parent-directed aggression.
To identify factors associated with cognitive dysfunction in this context.
To understand implications for intervention strategies.

Main Methods:

The study reviews existing literature on cognitive function and aggression.
It examines the relationship between cognitive domains and parent-directed aggression.
It considers factors like screen time, maltreatment, substance use, and neurodevelopmental conditions.

Main Results:

Cognitive dysfunction is hypothesized to increase the likelihood of parent-directed aggression.
Four key domains—screen time, maltreatment, substance use, and neurodevelopmental conditions—are associated with cognitive dysfunction.
Cognitive dysfunction may hinder intervention effectiveness.

Conclusions:

Cognitive dysfunction plays a significant role in parent-directed aggression.
Interventions should consider and address cognitive deficits.
Future research should focus on the interplay between cognitive function and parent-directed aggression.

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