Aggression in children: causes, consequences & helpful strategies

Aggression in children is a widespread and complex phenomenon that poses major challenges for parents, educators and society. It manifests itself in many different forms, from physical violence such as hitting and biting to verbal aggression such as insults to more subtle forms such as social exclusion or manipulation. Although aggression can be considered normal during certain stages of development, such as the defiant phase, it is crucial to distinguish between developmentally appropriate aggression and problematic behaviour.

Scientific research into the topic of aggression in children is of great importance, as it provides evidence-based findings that can support parents and educators in prevention and intervention. It is important to consider various factors that can influence aggressive behaviour. These include developmental psychological aspects such as age-appropriate development of impulse control and emotion regulation, emotional causes such as frustration, anger or fear, social influences such as family conflicts, media consumption or group dynamics, and neurobiological factors such as temperament, genetic disposition or hormonal influences. A comprehensive understanding of the causes and consequences of aggression makes it possible to develop targeted measures to promote children's emotional and social development and teach them alternative conflict resolution strategies. Preventive measures such as positive parenting, the promotion of empathy and emotional regulation, and the strengthening of social skills play an important role here, as do intervention-oriented approaches such as time-outs, positive reinforcement, or professional support.

This paper is dedicated to the topic of aggression in children in all its facets. It highlights the various causes and consequences of aggressive behaviour, provides an overview of current research findings and presents specific recommendations for parents and educators. The aim is to create a comprehensive understanding of this complex topic and to identify practical solutions to support children in their development and promote positive interaction. Both general strategies for prevention and intervention and specific challenges, such as dealing with biting and hitting, are addressed. In addition, peripheral areas such as aggression in daycare or school, sibling rivalry and support for parents who are themselves affected by aggression are also considered.

Aggression in children – a widespread phenomenon

Aggression in children is not a rare phenomenon. Studies show that the majority of children exhibit aggressive behaviour during their development. This can manifest itself in varying degrees of intensity and frequency and take different forms. While some children only have occasional outbursts of anger or get involved in minor altercations with their peers, others display chronically aggressive behaviour that is stressful for both themselves and those around them.

The frequency and intensity of aggression vary depending on the age and developmental stage of the child. For example, tantrums and physical altercations are more common in young children than in older children. As they get older, children usually learn to control their impulses better and resolve conflicts in other ways. Nevertheless, older children and adolescents can also display aggressive behaviour, especially when they are under emotional stress or faced with difficult life situations.

Aggression in children can manifest itself in various forms. Physical aggression includes behaviours such as hitting, kicking, biting, scratching or pushing. Verbal aggression manifests itself in the form of insults, verbal abuse, threats or verbal attacks. In addition, there are also more subtle forms of aggression, such as social exclusion, spreading rumours or manipulation.

It is important to emphasise that not every form of aggression is equally problematic.

In certain stages of development, such as the defiant phase, aggression can be considered a normal part of development. During this time, toddlers learn to assert their will and test their limits. They may react impulsively and aggressively when their needs are not met or when they feel frustrated. It is crucial to distinguish between developmentally appropriate aggression and problematic behaviour. If aggression occurs frequently, is very intense or places a heavy burden on the child or their environment, this may indicate underlying problems and require targeted intervention.

Definition and delimitation of aggression: forms, intensity, frequency

Aggression is a complex phenomenon that is not easy to define. In general, aggression is understood to be any behaviour that aims to harm or hurt others. This definition includes both physical and verbal aggression, as well as more subtle forms such as social exclusion or manipulation. It is important to distinguish between different forms of aggression, as they can have different causes and require different intervention strategies. A common distinction is between instrumental and hostile aggression. Instrumental aggression is used to achieve a specific goal, such as getting a toy or winning an argument. Hostile aggression, on the other hand, is motivated by anger or rage and aims to harm others.

Another important distinction is between reactive and proactive aggression. Reactive aggression is an impulsive response to a perceived threat or provocation. Proactive aggression, on the other hand, is planned and purposeful and is used to gain an advantage or exert power. In addition to distinguishing between different forms of aggression, it is also important to consider the intensity and frequency of aggression. Intensity refers to the severity of the aggression, for example, whether it is a light push or a violent blow. Frequency indicates how often aggressive behaviour occurs, for example, whether it is a one-time event or a chronic problem.

The definition and delineation of aggression is also influenced by culture and society. What is considered acceptable or even desirable in one culture may be viewed as problematic in another. For example, corporal punishment may be considered a legitimate means of discipline in some cultures, while in others it is condemned as violence against children. A nuanced understanding of aggression is therefore essential in order to respond appropriately to aggressive behaviour in children. It enables us to identify the underlying causes, develop appropriate intervention strategies and support children in their emotional and social development.

Cultural and social influences on the understanding of aggression

The understanding and evaluation of aggression are strongly influenced by cultural and social norms. What is considered acceptable behaviour in one culture may be considered unacceptable or even disruptive in another. These differences can also affect the perception and handling of aggression in children.

In some cultures, aggression is seen as a sign of strength, assertiveness and masculinity. Boys are encouraged to assert themselves physically and defend their interests aggressively. In other cultures, however, aggression is considered undesirable behaviour that should be suppressed. Girls are often taught to behave in a reserved and cooperative manner, while boys have more freedom to act out their aggression.

Social norms and values also play a role. In societies where violence and aggression are widespread, aggressive behaviour in children may be considered normal or even acceptable. In societies that value peacefulness, cooperation and conflict resolution, however, aggression is more likely to be perceived as problematic and sanctioned. The media also plays an important role in shaping the understanding of aggression. Today's children are exposed to a wide range of media content that depicts violence and aggression. Studies have shown that consuming violent media content can increase children's potential for aggression, especially if they already have a predisposition for aggressive behaviour or grow up in an environment where aggression is tolerated. It is important to be aware of these cultural and social influences in order to develop a nuanced understanding of aggression in children. Parents and educators should take into account the cultural backgrounds of children and adapt their parenting strategies accordingly. It is important to treat cultural differences with respect while setting clear boundaries when aggressive behaviour violates the rights or well-being of others.

Causes of aggressive behaviour: a multifactorial phenomenon

Aggressive behaviour in children is a multifactorial phenomenon that is influenced by a variety of factors. These factors can be developmental, emotional, social and neurobiological in nature and often interact in complex ways.

A comprehensive understanding of these factors is crucial in order to respond appropriately to aggressive behaviour and take preventive measures.

Developmental psychological aspects: Age-appropriate aggression and the defiant phase

In certain stages of development, aggression can be considered a normal part of child development. Toddlers, for example, are in a phase of exploration and learning in which they want to test their limits and assert their will. They may react impulsively and aggressively when their needs are not met or when they feel frustrated. A particularly challenging phase is the so-called defiant phase, which usually occurs between the ages of two and four. During this phase, children develop a strong need for autonomy and self-determination. They want to decide for themselves what they want to do and often react with anger and aggression when their wishes are not respected.

It is important to emphasise that this developmental aggression is usually temporary and decreases with increasing maturity and self-control. Parents and educators can support children during this phase by setting clear boundaries while also respecting their need for autonomy. It is important to remain patient, be consistent and show the child alternative ways to express their needs and resolve conflicts.

Emotional causes: frustration, anger, fear, overwhelm, lack of empathy

Emotional causes play an important role in the development of aggression. Children may react aggressively when they experience strong emotions such as anger, frustration, fear or sadness and are unable to regulate them appropriately. A lack of empathy or difficulty in seeing things from another person's perspective can also contribute to aggressive behaviour.

Frustration arises when children are prevented from achieving their goals or satisfying their needs. This can be the case, for example, when they do not get a toy, cannot solve a task or are excluded by other children. Anger is a natural response to frustration and can manifest itself in the form of aggression. Parents and educators can help children develop frustration tolerance by teaching them to deal with disappointment, find alternative solutions and express their needs in an appropriate manner.

Fear can also lead to aggression. Children may react aggressively when they feel threatened or insecure. This can be the case, for example, when they are afraid of other children, feel insecure in a new environment, or are afraid of failure. It is important to take the child's fears seriously, reassure them, and help them overcome their fears. Overwhelm can also be a trigger for aggression. When children are confronted with too many demands or stimuli, they may feel overwhelmed and react aggressively. This can be the case, for example, if they have too many appointments, do not get enough sleep, or live in a noisy and restless environment. Parents and educators should ensure that children have sufficient rest breaks, regular exercise, and a balanced diet. A structured daily routine and a calm environment can help to reduce excessive demands.

A lack of empathy, i.e. the ability to put oneself in another person's shoes and see things from their perspective, can also contribute to aggressive behaviour. Children who find it difficult to see things from another person's perspective are unable to properly assess the effects of their behaviour on others and are more likely to react aggressively. Parents and educators can promote empathy by teaching children to recognise and name the feelings of others, talk about their own feelings, and put themselves in the shoes of others.

Social influences: observational learning, family conflicts, media consumption, group dynamics

Social influences have a major impact on children's behaviour. Children learn by observing and imitating others, especially their parents, siblings, peers, and other caregivers. If children frequently witness violence or aggression in their environment, whether in the family, among friends, at school, or in the media, they may imitate this behaviour and learn it as an appropriate conflict resolution strategy.

Family conflicts can also contribute to aggressive behaviour in children. If parents frequently argue or behave violently, children may learn that aggression is an acceptable way to resolve conflicts. An authoritarian or neglectful parenting style, in which children are severely punished, controlled or ignored, can also lead to aggression. A supportive and loving family environment, where conflicts are resolved constructively and children feel safe and secure, can help prevent aggression. Media consumption also plays an important role. Today's children are exposed to a wide range of media content that depicts violence and aggression. Studies have shown that consuming violent media content can increase children's potential for aggression, especially if they already have a predisposition for aggressive behaviour or grow up in an environment where aggression is tolerated. Parents and educators should critically monitor children's media consumption, select age-appropriate media and talk to children about the content.

Group dynamics can also encourage aggressive behaviour. In groups, children can learn that aggression is a way to gain recognition, assert themselves or exercise power. Bullying, peer pressure and negative role models can contribute to children displaying aggressive behaviour. Parents and educators should ensure that children are integrated into positive social groups that promote cooperation, respect and tolerance.

Neurobiological factors: temperament, impulse control, genetic disposition, hormonal influences

Neurobiological factors can also play a role in the development of aggression. Children with an impulsive temperament or difficulties with impulse control are more prone to aggressive behaviour. Genetic dispositions or hormonal influences can also affect aggression potential. A child's temperament refers to their innate personality and characteristic behaviours. Some children are naturally more impulsive and reactive than others. They tend to get angry or frustrated quickly and have less control over their impulses. These children are at increased risk for aggressive behaviour. Parents and educators can help these children by teaching them to control their impulses, regulate their emotions and develop alternative behaviours.

Impulse control is the ability to suppress impulses and plan and control actions. Children with impulse control difficulties tend to act spontaneously and without thinking, without considering the consequences of their behaviour. They may react aggressively without thinking first or looking for alternative solutions. Parents and educators can promote impulse control by teaching children to recognise and name their emotions, take deep breaths, relax, and find alternative courses of action. Genetic predispositions can also play a role. Studies have shown that there is a genetic component to the development of aggression. Children whose parents display aggressive behaviour are at increased risk of becoming aggressive themselves. However, this does not mean that aggression is inevitable. Through positive parenting and targeted support, children can learn to control their impulses and resolve conflicts without violence.

Hormonal influences can also affect aggression potential. In boys in particular, elevated testosterone levels can contribute to aggressive behaviour. Other hormones, such as cortisol, which is released during stress, can also influence aggression potential. It is important to note that hormonal influences are only one factor among many and that a variety of other factors also play a role.

Special challenges

In addition to the causes already mentioned, there are other factors that can increase the risk of aggressive behaviour in children. These include:

• Children with disabilities: Children with developmental delays, intellectual disabilities or other impairments may be at increased risk for aggressive behaviour due to their special needs and challenges. Difficulties in communication, emotion regulation or understanding social interactions can lead to frustration and aggression.

• Traumatic experiences: Children who have had traumatic experiences, such as violence, abuse, neglect or the loss of a loved one, may also have an increased potential for aggression. Trauma can impair emotional development and lead to difficulties in regulating emotions, controlling impulses and building relationships.

• Other risk factors: Other factors that can increase the risk of aggressive behaviour include low socioeconomic status, an unstable family environment, frequent moves, conflicts at school or a lack of positive role models.

It is important to recognise these particular challenges and respond appropriately. Children with special needs require individualised support and assistance to develop their strengths and compensate for their weaknesses. Early intervention tailored to the specific needs of the child can help reduce aggressive behaviour and positively influence the child's development.

Consequences of aggressive behaviour: effects on the child, their environment and society

Aggressive behaviour in children can have far-reaching consequences that affect not only the child themselves, but also their environment and society. The effects can be short-term and long-term and can impact various areas of life.

Impact on the child: social isolation, developmental delays, low self-esteem, mental health problems

Aggressive behaviour can impair the child's development in various areas. Children who frequently react aggressively often have difficulty establishing and maintaining positive relationships with their peers. They may become socially isolated because other children avoid them or are afraid of them. This can lead to loneliness, sadness and a feeling of exclusion.

In addition, aggressive behaviour can also lead to developmental delays in other areas. Children who devote a lot of energy and attention to aggressive behaviour may have fewer resources for other important areas of development, such as language development, cognitive development or emotional regulation. Another risk is the development of low self-esteem. Children who frequently react aggressively often receive negative feedback from those around them. They are criticised, punished or excluded. This can lead them to perceive themselves as bad, incapable or worthless. Low self-esteem can in turn increase the risk of further mental health problems.

Aggressive behaviour can also lead to mental health problems such as anxiety disorders, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. Children who frequently react aggressively may be under constant stress and have difficulty regulating their emotions. This can lead to a vicious circle in which aggressive behaviour and mental health problems reinforce each other.

Effects on the environment: conflict, stress, anxiety, insecurity, disruption of family life

Aggressive behaviour not only puts a strain on the child itself, but also on its environment. Parents, educators and other caregivers can be severely burdened and stressed by the child's aggressive behaviour. They must be constantly on guard, mediating conflicts and protecting the child from harm. This can lead to exhaustion, frustration and a feeling of helplessness. Other children may also suffer from a child's aggressive behaviour. They may be afraid of being bullied or hurt. This can lead to a climate of insecurity and fear within the group and affect the well-being of all children.

Within the family environment, aggressive behaviour can lead to conflicts, tensions and a disruption of family life. Parents may feel overwhelmed and find it difficult to maintain a positive relationship with their child. Siblings may feel neglected or treated unfairly and develop aggressive behaviour themselves.

Long-term consequences: behavioural disorders, mental health problems, delinquency, failure at school, problems in working life

If aggressive behaviour is not recognised and treated at an early stage, it can have long-term negative consequences. Children who frequently react aggressively in childhood have an increased risk of developing behavioural disorders, mental health problems or delinquency in adolescence and adulthood.

Behavioural disorders are persistent patterns of inappropriate behaviour that impair social, academic or occupational functioning. These include, for example, oppositional defiant behaviour, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or social behaviour disorders. These disorders can lead to difficulties at school, in dealing with peers and later in working life. Mental health problems such as anxiety disorders, depression, personality disorders or substance abuse can also be a consequence of aggressive behaviour in childhood. These problems can significantly impair quality of life and increase the risk of further mental and physical illness. They can also lead to difficulties in social relationships, working life and coping with everyday life.

Delinquency, i.e. criminal behaviour, is another possible long-term consequence of aggressive behaviour in childhood. Studies have shown that children who frequently react aggressively in childhood have an increased risk of becoming delinquent in adolescence and adulthood. This can lead to problems with the law, imprisonment and impaired future prospects. Failure at school is another possible consequence of aggressive behaviour. Children who frequently react aggressively often have difficulty concentrating at school, following rules and building positive relationships with teachers and classmates. This can lead to poor grades, expulsion from school and, in the worst case, dropping out of school.

Problems in professional life can also be a consequence of aggressive behaviour in childhood. People who were aggressive in their childhood often have difficulty finding and keeping a job. They may have problems working with colleagues and superiors, following rules and resolving conflicts constructively. This can lead to unemployment, financial difficulties and a reduced quality of life.

Social costs: healthcare, education system, justice system, social welfare system

Aggressive behaviour in children not only causes individual suffering, but also high social costs. These arise from the use of healthcare services, special support measures in the education system, the costs of the justice system for delinquent young people and adults, and the use of social welfare services. In the healthcare system, costs arise from the treatment of injuries caused by aggressive behaviour and from the therapy of mental health problems associated with aggression. These include, for example, hospital stays, doctor's visits, medication and therapy costs.

In the education system, costs are incurred through special support measures for children with aggressive behaviour, such as school support, behavioural therapy or special classes. These measures are necessary to enable children to receive an appropriate education and to positively influence their behaviour. Judicial costs are incurred through the prosecution and imprisonment of delinquent juveniles and adults who exhibited aggressive behaviour in their childhood. These include, for example, police operations, court proceedings, prison stays and probation services. These costs can be considerable and place a heavy burden on society. The social welfare system is also burdened by aggressive behaviour in children. Children who have difficulties at school or in their professional lives due to their aggressive behaviour may be dependent on state support. This can include, for example, unemployment benefits, social assistance or other benefits.

Prevention and early intervention are therefore not only in the interest of the individual child, but also in the interest of society as a whole. By investing in the prevention and treatment of aggression in children, we can save costs in the long term and help to create a healthier, safer and more equitable society.

Helpful strategies for parents and educators: prevention and intervention

Parents and educators can use various strategies to reduce aggressive behaviour in children and promote positive interaction. These can be divided into preventive measures, which aim to prevent aggression, and intervention-oriented approaches, which are used in cases of acute aggression. Both approaches are important in developing a comprehensive concept for promoting positive social behaviour in children.

Prevention

Preventive measures aim to prevent the development of aggressive behaviour by addressing the underlying causes and teaching children alternative behaviours. These measures can begin in early childhood and should continue throughout childhood and adolescence.

• Positive parenting: Loving and supportive parenting based on clear rules, positive reinforcement and loving consequences can help prevent aggression. Praise and encouragement for desired behaviour strengthen the child's self-esteem and promote positive behaviour. Parents and educators should try to build a positive relationship with the child by spending time with them, listening to them, taking their interests seriously and showing them appreciation.

• Emotion regulation: Teaching children to recognise, name and express their feelings appropriately is an important part of preventing aggression. Parents and educators can help children develop alternative strategies for dealing with anger and frustration, such as taking deep breaths, moving around, painting, talking about their feelings or retreating to a quiet corner.

• Conflict resolution: Children should learn alternative conflict resolution strategies so that they can resolve conflicts without resorting to violence. Parents and educators can help children express their needs, find compromises and communicate with each other respectfully. Role-playing, stories, joint discussions and modelling constructive conflict resolution strategies can help develop these skills.

• Strengthening social skills: Promoting empathy, perspective-taking and cooperation can help prevent aggression. Children should learn to understand the feelings of others, empathise with them and find solutions together. Playing games together, group activities, modelling empathy and reflecting on social situations together can help strengthen social skills.

• Healthy lifestyle: Getting enough sleep, exercise and a healthy diet can help reduce aggression. Parents and educators should ensure that children get enough rest, exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet. A regular daily routine, fixed bedtimes, shared meals and enough time to play and relax can help promote a healthy lifestyle.

Intervention

Intervention-oriented approaches are used when a child reacts aggressively in an acute situation. The aim of these measures is to de-escalate the situation, calm the child down and show them alternative behaviours.

• Calm and consistent intervention: In acute situations of aggression, it is important to intervene calmly and consistently. Parents and educators should set clear boundaries for the child and make it clear that aggressive behaviour is unacceptable. It is important to remain calm and firm, not to react aggressively yourself, and to show the child alternative behaviours.

• Time-out: A time-out can be a helpful break for both the child and the adult to calm down and reflect on the situation. The child should be taken to a quiet place where they can collect themselves and calm down. The time-out should not be seen as a punishment, but as an opportunity for self-regulation. After the time-out, the incident should be discussed together and alternative behaviours worked out.

• Positive reinforcement: Desirable behaviour should be positively reinforced to encourage the child to develop alternative behaviours. Praise, recognition and small rewards can help the child have positive experiences and change their behaviour. It is important to praise the child for their efforts, even if they are not yet able to resolve conflicts non-violently.

• Professional help: Professional help should be sought in cases of persistent or severe aggression. Counselling centres, therapists, educational counselling centres or child and adolescent psychiatrists can support parents and educators and develop individual solutions. Early intervention can help prevent aggressive behaviour from becoming chronic and avoid long-term negative consequences.

• Cooperation: Good cooperation between parents, educators, teachers, therapists and, if necessary, doctors is crucial for successfully treating aggressive behaviour. All parties involved should communicate regularly, share information and work together to find solutions. A common understanding of the problem and a coordinated approach are important in order to provide the child with the best possible support.

Specific challenges and approaches

In addition to general strategies for preventing and intervening in aggression in children, there are also specific challenges that require special attention. These include, for example, biting and hitting, aggression in daycare or school, sibling rivalry and support for parents who are themselves affected by aggression.

Biting: causes, prevention, intervention

Biting is a common form of aggression in young children, but can also occur in older children. Causes can include frustration, overwhelm, teething pain, lack of language skills, or a need for attention.

As a preventive measure, parents and educators can offer the child alternative ways of expressing themselves, such as bite-proof toys, naming feelings, or offering comfort and closeness. In acute biting incidents, it is important to intervene calmly and consistently, setting clear boundaries for the child and showing them alternative behaviours. It can be helpful to briefly remove the child from the situation and help them calm down.

Hitting: causes, prevention, intervention

Hitting is another common form of aggression in children. The causes can be similar to those of biting, but can also include anger, annoyance, a feeling of powerlessness or a lack of impulse control.

As a preventive measure, parents and educators can teach the child to express their anger and frustration in other ways, such as through sport, creative activities, talking about their feelings or offering alternative activities. In acute cases of hitting, it is important to protect the child and others, set clear boundaries and show them alternative behaviours. It can also be helpful to teach the child to apologise and make amends.

Aggression in nursery/school: challenges and solutions

Aggression in nursery or school poses a particular challenge as it affects not only the child concerned but also the entire group. The causes of aggression can be manifold, ranging from developmental difficulties in regulating emotions to conflicts with peers, bullying or an unfavourable group atmosphere.

In order to successfully deal with aggression in nursery or school, close cooperation between parents, educators and teachers is necessary. Together, they should identify the causes of the aggressive behaviour and develop an individual support plan for the child. This can include both preventive measures, such as social skills training or the promotion of empathy, and intervention-oriented measures, such as time-outs or discussions with the child. An important aspect of dealing with aggression in nursery or school is creating a positive and supportive group atmosphere. Children should be encouraged to resolve conflicts without violence, to respect each other and to turn to adults when problems arise. Promoting positive relationships between children can also help to reduce aggression.

Dealing with sibling rivalry and aggression

Sibling rivalry is a normal phenomenon, but it can lead to conflict and aggression between siblings. Parents can reduce sibling rivalry by treating and encouraging each child individually, establishing fair rules and resolving conflicts constructively.

It is important that parents perceive each child as an independent personality with individual needs and strengths. They should avoid comparing children with each other or showing favouritism. Instead, they should encourage each child individually and make them feel loved and valued. Fair rules and a clear structure can help to reduce conflicts between siblings. Parents should establish clear rules for how children interact with each other and enforce them consistently. It is important that the rules apply to all children and are fair.

When conflicts arise, parents should act as mediators and help the children resolve their conflicts constructively. They can teach the children to express their feelings, see things from the other person's perspective and look for solutions together.

Parents should also encourage positive behaviour between siblings. They can organise joint activities where the children can work together and have fun. Praising positive behaviour and pointing out positive role models can also help siblings get along better and reduce conflicts.

When parents themselves are affected

Parents who are themselves affected by aggression, whether from their child or from other people, need special support. It is important that they seek help and do not feel ashamed to talk about their problems. Aggression can be a serious burden and affect both physical and mental health.

There are various services available, such as counselling centres, self-help groups and therapeutic support, which can help parents to deal with the situation and develop new perspectives.

• Counselling centres: Counselling centres offer parents a safe space to talk about their problems and receive support. They can help parents understand the causes of aggression, develop new coping strategies and strengthen their parenting skills. Counselling centres can also assist in referring parents to other sources of help, such as therapy or self-help groups.

• Self-help groups: Self-help groups offer parents the opportunity to talk to other parents who have had similar experiences. Talking to other affected parents can be a relief, open up new perspectives and help parents feel less alone. Self-help groups can also provide information and practical tips for dealing with aggression.

• Therapeutic support: Therapeutic support can help parents regulate their own emotions, reduce stress and develop new coping strategies. In therapy, parents can learn to control their own aggression, resolve conflicts constructively and build a positive relationship with their child. Therapeutic support can also help in processing traumatic experiences that may have contributed to the development of aggression.

It is important to emphasise that there is no shame in seeking help. Aggression is a serious problem that requires professional support. Parents should not be afraid to seek help in order to protect their own health and the well-being of their child.

Conclusion: Aggression in children is a solvable problem

Aggression in children is a complex phenomenon with multiple causes and consequences. Nevertheless, it is important to emphasise that aggression is not an inevitable fate, but a solvable problem. Through early intervention, targeted preventive measures and comprehensive support, children can learn to regulate their emotions, resolve conflicts without violence and build positive relationships. Parents and educators play a key role in this. They are the most important caregivers for children and have a decisive influence on their development. By practising positive parenting, teaching children to express their feelings and resolve conflicts constructively, and seeking professional help when necessary, they can make a significant contribution to preventing and managing aggression.

Society also bears responsibility. By creating supportive structures, such as counselling centres, therapeutic services and prevention programmes, it can support parents and educators in their important task and help ensure that children can grow up in a non-violent and respectful environment.

Aggression in children is an issue that concerns us all. By working together to promote non-violent parenting and positive coexistence, we can help children grow into self-confident, empathetic and responsible adults.

Future challenges and research perspectives

Although great progress has been made in recent years in understanding and treating aggression in children, there are still many unanswered questions and challenges. Future research should focus on better understanding the complex relationships between the various causes of aggression, developing more effective prevention and intervention measures, and investigating the long-term effects of aggression on child development.

An important area of future research is the investigation of the role of neurobiological factors in the development of aggression. Through the use of modern imaging techniques and genetic analyses, we can learn more about how the brains of aggressive children function and which genes influence aggression potential. This knowledge can contribute to the development of new therapeutic approaches that specifically target the neurobiological causes of aggression.

Another important area is the development of more effective prevention and intervention measures. This should include both universal prevention programmes aimed at all children and targeted interventions for children at increased risk of aggression. These programmes should be based on the latest scientific findings and take into account both the individual needs of the children and the specific requirements of their respective environments. Finally, it is important to investigate the long-term effects of aggression on children's development. Longitudinal studies can help us better understand which factors contribute to aggressive behaviour becoming chronic and which protective factors can positively influence children's development. This knowledge can help to develop more effective prevention and intervention measures and minimise the long-term consequences of aggression.

Final thoughts

Aggression in children is a complex and multifaceted issue that concerns us all. By working together to promote non-violent parenting and positive coexistence, we can help children grow into happy, healthy and successful adults.

It is important to remember that every child is unique and has individual needs and challenges. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for preventing and treating aggression. Rather, an individualised approach is required that takes into account the specific needs of the child and their environment.

Parents, educators, teachers and other caregivers play a crucial role in this. They can support children in regulating their emotions, resolving conflicts without violence and building positive relationships. By practising positive parenting, setting clear boundaries for children, but also respecting their need for autonomy, they can make a significant contribution to the prevention of aggression. Society can also contribute by supporting parents and educators in their important task and creating an environment in which children can grow up without violence. By providing counselling centres, therapeutic services and prevention programmes, society can help ensure that children receive the support they need to manage their aggression and lead happy and fulfilling lives.

It is also important to emphasise that the prevention and treatment of aggression in children is a task for society as a whole. In addition to parents and educators, schools, daycare centres, clubs, the media and politicians also play an important role. Through close cooperation and a holistic approach, we can work together to ensure that children grow up in a non-violent and respectful environment and can develop their full potential.