Resolving Persistent and Intense Child Anger

When it comes to children, outbursts and tantrums are not necessarily surprising. Anger is, after all, a natural emotion, especially among children. Having less capacity for this powerful emotion, kids may lash out when they are frustrated, hurt or can’t have what they want. They may cry nonstop when feeling agitated, tired, or ill.  They may scream at the top of their lungs, regardless of where they are, in response to feelings or events they dislike.

While angry outbursts aren’t uncommon for children, if they become persistent or increase in intensity they may indicate something more. Excessive anger can be an indicator of depression or anxiety, even when it comes to children. If you are concerned about your child’s anger, it may be worth a second look. Consulting with a trained child counselor can make a big difference. 

Child Anger: What Could It Mean?

A child’s young brain can be incapable of processing their raw emotions, especially when they are distressed. This can be a reason for their emotional outbursts, tantrums or meltdowns. This means that they may exhibit anger when feeling afraid, sad, frustrated, or offended. It can also be used to mask guilt, grief or poor self-esteem. At worse, anger can indicate sensory processing conditions, learning challenges, autism, and even emotional or behavioral conditions. 

Anger can also be used to release pent-up emotions in response to loss or trauma. Being angry can also be a response when kids have difficulty following instructions, finishing tasks, or moving from one chore to another. Young learners struggling with sensory processing conditions and difficulty successfully completing tasks may also be predisposed to anger.

Anger can similarly be symptomatic of Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), or Conduct Disorder (CD). Several studies show that more than 50 percent of children with ADHD also struggle with anger. Anxious and depressed children are similarly predisposed to anger. 

Counseling and Resolving Anger

Persistent and intense anger is damaging if it is allowed to continue unchecked. While anger is a natural emotion, when it becomes constant or unhealthy it will rarely improve without intervention. Therapy can help your child to learn more about their feelings of anger and find healthier ways to cope and respond. 

Carolina Counseling Services – Sanford, NC contracts with skilled child counselors that know how to address anger. Call CCS today to schedule your first appointment, we can’t wait to hear from you!

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