Disciplining an Aggressive Child

An aggressive child can turn to become more dominating, bullying and defensive in future. Aggression in day-to-day life is harmful.

Aggressive children may get angry and violent if things do not work out the way they want, if parents do not do as they say, if they are scolded, are denied something they want, if they are teased in a joking manner and so on. This can lead to loss of temper, patience, tolerance and the child may show a tendency for fist fights, bullying, hurting if his/her will is not done.

Disciplining aggressive children needs a balance of polite and strict ways. Creating fear can reduce such behaviour in the child. The acknowledgement of parent is important to all children. If it is denied to them, they may change their ways to please the parent.

So you may tell the child that if you see or hear of such behaviour, you will be angry and not talk to them. Show the child that you mean what you say.

Tell the child to calm down when he/she gets aggressive. If he/she does not budge, tell him/her that you will not talk to them, and keep mum for a few hours, display your anger in subtle ways. Your anger and lack of communication may make them change their ways.

You can also use the reward and punishment method to discipline the child. For example, when the child does not show aggression, you may reward him/her with the favourite pastry, movie, chocolate and your praise, love and affection.

If the child gets aggressive (like beating, throwing around things, stamping the foot, screaming) tell him that you will not tolerate such behaviour and think of a suitable punishment (for example, not allowing them to watch t.v., not giving them chocolates, cancelling an evening outing or play time).

Remembrance of the punishment may deter them from behaving in this manner in future.

You can also use the threat of people the child is afraid of.  For example, the schoolteacher, a neighbour with strict manners, a policemen or security guard. Fear that you will give away the child to them will set them straight.