A severe trauma or being prolonged or repeatedly exposed to traumatic events can constitute a violation of sense of safety and belief in the world as a safe place and consequently might lead to aggressive and/ or defiant behavior.
Aggressive behavior
- Bullying, threatening, or hitting other children.
- Forcing other children into sexual activities.
Serious violation of rules
- Defying parental prohibitions and rules (for example, staying out at night) and repeatedly run away from home, or skip school at a young age.
Destruction of property
- Deliberately engaging in fire setting or destroying other`s property.
Lying or theft
- Lying for personal gain (receiving items or favors) or to avoid obligations.
- Stealing things of nontrivial value.
Defiant behavior
- Being very sensitive or feeling quickly annoyed by others and consequently losing your nerves.
- Arguing with adults.
Tips
- Agree on a sign with your friends and parents when you notice that aggressions arise. Agree on what to do when it happens (e.g., leaving the situation/room for a short amount of time to calm down).
- Think of strategies to reduce aggressions (e.g. boxing in a pillow or punching bag).
- Reward yourself for positive behaviors (e.g. going to the movies, meeting friends, etc.).
- Try to use sport as an outlet for your aggressions.