Aggression is a part of the nature of human beings. It seems reasonable to be angry when things don’t go the right way. However some people have a tendency to always be upset and irritated. Thresholds need to be set at an acceptable point. Everything man thinks, feels and does is controlled by the chemical activity in his brain. Certain neurotransmitter alterations in the brain are known to generate belligerent behavior. Also, aggression is attributed to high testosterone, indicating why it is commoner in men. It is essential to know that like all instinctual behaviors (feeding, excretion, sexuality) aggression too can be in our own control. Acting out on an aggressive impulse implies a loss of self-control.

Certain external factors like hot sultry climate, crowded and unclean surroundings, too much crowd, exacting demands at work, interpersonal stressors, financial constraints, excessive noise, pollution etc. can contribute to aggression. Thus neurochemicals (genetic factors) constitute the core of the aggressive personality, which the environmental factors liberally worsen. We cannot undermine the role of media in inculcating aggression among children and adults alike. More so in children, aggressive cartoons, movies, terror news, or simply a verbal argument or physical tiff between the parents can also trigger aggressive outbursts.

Physical assaults, attacks, fights; all are aggressive exchanges we commonly see in people. But aggression is not merely somatic beating. Direct verbal attacks like insulting, cursing and swearing; as well as sarcasm and snide remarks amount to verbal aggression. In several cultures, looking at people in a specific way may amount to aggression too! One needs to realize etiquette and socially acceptable ways of expressing discontentment and anger. After all, that’s what differentiates humans from beasts.

Although seemingly required at times, anger and aggression have derogatory effects on performance. An agitated mind does not work rationally and makes illogical and impulsive decisions. All these lead to regret and remorse. A calm and relaxed mind that accepts human as well as natural limitations does not get furious or violent easily. Hence it is very important to maintain a relaxed state of mind at all times. This may sound impossible for someone who is aggressive; but practice can give promising results.

MINDFRAMES with its team of qualified experts provides structured behavior modification techniques, tips for self-change and improvement, relaxation, visual imagery, as well as biofeedback mechanisms which help individuals cope with their aggressive impulses. Cognitive tasks and homework allow for introspection into aggressive outbursts and their antecedent events so that triggers can be identified and dealt with well in time. The important step is insight into one’s aggressive behavior, and cognizance of the ill effects it can have on performance. Self-change can only be initiated by the self. After all it is the stepping-stone for self-growth.