The Angry

Behavior: How exactly is my child behaving?

• Mad all the time—at himself or herself, others, or both.
  
  
• Degree of the anger varies, but it is frequent and sometimes intense.
  
  
• Strikes out verbally and physically at others, including parents, teachers, and children. Hostile even toward authority figures he or she doesn't know.
  
  
• May yell out or throw objects.
  
  
• Acts mad at the world. Has a chip on his or her shoulder.
  
  
• Usually defensive regarding the reason for the anger. In his or her mind the anger is justified. Will even say, "Who wouldn't be angry?"
  
  
• If his or her reason is not accepted, this child will become offensive toward the person who does not agree with his or her stance.
  
  
• Often loses control of himself or herself when angry.
  
  
• May appear to be overindulged by adults and peers alike.
  
  
• May throw tantrums.
  
  
• Almost always blames others for what has caused his or her anger.
  
  
• Often, threatens to get angrier "the next time" rather than say "I'm sorry."