Introduction
Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED) is a mental disorder characterized by recurring episodes of disproportionate and uncontrollable outbursts of anger. Such outbursts can be verbal (screaming, swearing) or physical (aggressiveness against objects or people) and cause significant suffering to the individual and those around them.
However, TEI is often overlooked, despite having a significant impact on the lives of individuals who experience it. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), TEI is characterized by:
- Recurrent episodes of outbursts of anger that are not premeditated.
- Failure to resist the impulse to anger.
- Verbal or physical aggression disproportionate to the trigger.
- Causes significant distress or impairment in social, professional functioning, or other important areas of life.
In this sense, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective in treating TEI, through techniques that help to identify and modify dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors.
Epidemiology, etiology and other information
The prevalence of TEI in the general population is estimated at around 3% to 6%. The disorder usually begins in childhood or adolescence and can persist into adulthood. Men are more often affected than women.
The causes of TEI are not yet fully understood, involving psychological, neurobiological, social factors, etc. As for risk factors, they include childhood trauma, genetics and serotonergic abnormalities in the brain, especially in the areas of the orbital frontal cortex and the limbic system.
- Psychological factors : Difficulties in emotional regulation, impulsivity, and dysfunctional beliefs about anger are psychological factors that may contribute to TEI.
- Neurobiological factors : Studies suggest that changes in brain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, may be related to TEI. Furthermore, structural and functional abnormalities in some areas of the brain have also been associated with the disorder.
- Social factors : Exposure to childhood violence, neglect, and abuse are social factors that can increase the risk of developing TEI.
Furthermore, TEI often coexists with other mental disorders, such as borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and substance abuse disorders.
Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment
The main symptoms according to the DSM-5 are:
- Recurrent outbursts of anger
- Verbal or physical aggression
- Difficulty controlling anger
- Impulsiveness
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feelings of guilt and shame after explosions
- Impairment in social, professional functioning or other important areas of life
The diagnosis of TEI is carried out by a mental health professional, based on a careful clinical interview and specific assessment instruments. As for treatment, it usually includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication. In general, the most commonly used medications are antidepressants and mood stabilizers.
As for psychotherapies, we mention here Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which has proven to be effective in treating TEI, as it aims to help the individual identify and modify dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors related to anger.
- Anger Management Skills Training : Teaches techniques for identifying and controlling anger, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and assertive communication.
- Cognitive restructuring : Assists in identifying and modifying dysfunctional thoughts related to anger, such as distorted thoughts about situations and negative beliefs about oneself.
- Gradual exposure to situations that provoke anger : Teaches the individual to face situations that provoke anger in a gradual and controlled way.
- Social skills training : Teaches skills to improve communication and interpersonal relationships.
Conclusion
Intermittent Explosive Disorder (TEI) is a serious mental disorder that considerably impacts the lives of individuals who have it. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective form of treatment, helping to identify and modify dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors related to anger, as well as promoting the development of skills to deal with stressful situations and control anger in a healthy way. .
References
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