8 Minutes
Table of Contents
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition, lists intermittent explosive disorder (IED) as a mental health issue (DSM-5). Conduct disorder, Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), Pyromania, and Kleptomania are among the five impulse control disorders. Explosive anger disorder patients are unable to control their violent outbursts, which usually occur abruptly and are directed at someone close to them. In the US, roughly 16 million people suffer from the illness. It usually begins at a young age, around the age of 12, and appears to be more prevalent in men than in women.
In IED episodes, there is sudden anger for no reason. These episodes are out of proportion to the actual danger, and they don’t serve any aim, such as gaining a benefit or overpowering someone. A person with IED who yells at their current or former partner, for instance, isn’t trying to manipulate their partner’s behavior through aggression. The enraged episode serves no discernible function.
Witnesses may perceive these outbursts as unreasonable “freak-outs.” Physical aggressiveness, violent threats, or verbal abuse are all possibilities. They normally last around 30 minutes and are followed by feelings of regret, humiliation, and discomfort. Employment and relationships can suffer as a result of the condition. IED, on the other hand, is extremely durable. While someone with the illness is receiving therapy, those closest to them can assist in de-escalating IED episodes.