An Overview of Intermittent Explosive Disorder

Intermittent Explosive Disorder is a behavioral disorder that is characterized by an individual acting in anger that is very much out of proportion to the situation that has caused the anger to come up. This usually occurs on a repetitive basis. The behavior in these situations is typically violent and/or aggressive. Individuals with Intermittent Explosive Disorder, individuals may attack others who happen to be in their way: or, they will take their anger out on their possessions. After these individuals have calmed down, they will regret what they have done, and they will feel a deep sense of remorse. They may even feel embarrassed about how they have acted out. Nevertheless, this is a real problem and one that these individuals whish that they could control.

Some of the Behaviors those Patients with Intermittent Explosive Disorder Exhibit

The behaviors that may occur with an individual will Intermittent Explosive Disorder are contingent upon the severity of the condition. Individuals may commit domestic abuse and violence, have frequent road rage, or have tantrums that involve throwing objects. These individuals can even experience violent fits of rage that will cause them to say a number of ugly things that they do not mean. Individuals with Intermittent Explosive Disorder will need treatment in order to keep anger attacks at bay. Treatments usually are a combination of drugs and therapy. Individuals with Intermittent Explosive Disorder may even benefit from anger management, as anger management can be very beneficial for keeping the temper tamed.

Causes of Intermittent Explosive Disorder

The exact causes of Intermittent Explosive Disorder are not known; however, experts do have their theories. Some state that environmental and biological factors are responsible for the development of Intermittent Explosive Disorder. Experts state that most individuals with Intermittent Explosive Disorder grew up in families where explosive behavior was common, as well as verbal and/or physical abuse. Experts also state that hormonal imbalances can be responsible for the condition. For instance, too much testosterone can attribute to the development of Intermittent Explosive Disorder. Chemical imbalances can play a role in the development of Intermittent Explosive Disorder. Experts say that it is very possible that serotonin, a chemical messenger in the brain that is used to control moods, works differently in individuals who have Intermittent Explosive Disorder.

Individuals with Intermittent Explosive Disorder do not have these outbursts because they want attention. Many of them feel very badly about the rage that comes up on an intermittent basis, and they wish that it would not happen that way. These individuals with this condition need a great deal of support and understanding from loved ones and friends.

Work Cited

Mayo Clinic Staff. "Intermittent Explosive Disorder." Mayo Clinic. N.p., 2010. Web. 24 Aug. 2010.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/intermittent-explosive-disorder/DS00730.