Typically an adolescent can become agitated or fearful with a change in activity or a new situation. A rapid change in mood can lead to hitting, throwing or destructive behavior. Physical calming techniques such as brushing, joint compression or a deep pressure massage also can be helpful in diverting a physical outburst. Sexual frustration is not uncommon in this age group, and it can be exacerbated by obsessional thinking. Interaction with a female with whom an adult male is infatuated may precipitate aggression.
Psychological counseling is useful in many ways.
If the above interventions do not alleviate aggression, medication can be a helpful component to treatment. A synergistic effect can be seen with the concomitant use of behavior modification through counseling, and psychotropic medication. The choice of medication for treatment of aggression depends on what the underlying symptoms are. Sedation occurs at first in the majority of children treated with an alpha 2 agonist. An EKG should be done in follow-up treatment since these medications may prolong cardiac conduction.