Aggression in adolescents. Aspects of pathogenesis

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychology
• Adolescent Medicine

Background:

• Violent adolescent behavior poses significant challenges to societal well-being and healthcare systems.
• Understanding the multifaceted origins of adolescent aggression is crucial for effective clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of theories on the pathogenesis of aggression in adolescence.
• To synthesize current knowledge on biological and psychosocial factors contributing to aggressive behavior.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on neuroanatomy, neurobiochemistry, hormonal influences, and psychosocial factors.
• Inclusion of studies on drug abuse, media influence, epilepsy, and electroencephalographic (EEG) changes.
• Consideration of multidisciplinary research on adolescent aggression.

Main Results:

• Aggression in adolescence is linked to complex interactions between neurobiological underpinnings (neuroanatomy, neurochemistry) and environmental factors.
• Hormonal influences, drug abuse, media exposure, and conditions like epilepsy with EEG abnormalities are relevant contributing elements.
• The etiology of adolescent aggression is multifactorial, requiring a comprehensive approach.

Conclusions:

• A multidisciplinary understanding of adolescent aggression is essential for clinicians.
• Further research is needed to identify specific biological and social markers for targeted prevention and intervention strategies.
• Future studies should aim for more definitive measurements to guide clinical approaches to managing aggressive adolescent behavior.