What Leads Children to Become Aggressive and Violent?

Parents and relatives of children caught in domestic violence often wonder if their children will become physically aggressive.

A recent study funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development may provide some guidance.

The seven year study found that two characteristics strongly predicted whether or not a child showed tendencies toward physical violence.

1. Harsh physical punishment in the family
   The study found that parents who physically punished their children were more likely to have children who were physically violent toward others.
2. Inhibition
   One personality characteristic also seemed to be linked to physical violence. A child who is generally fearful and lacks confidence in school also seemed more likely to become physically aggressive. The study noted that simply being shy did not lead to a child being more violent.
   
   The study also noted that “bullying” (peer victimization) lead some children to violent fantasies and these fantasies seemed to predict that the child was more likely to become aggressive.
   
   

For a more in-depth summary, see the press release from Harvard University.

Source: Maryland Legal Assistance Network