Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED) is one of five Impulse Control Disorders (ICD) and is defined as an inability to resist aggressive impulses to verbally threaten a person with physical assault, commit physical assault, or damage or destroy property. The aggression is disproportionate to any provocation or precipitating stressor and is not due to Substance Abuse. A person with Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED) may describe the aggressive impulses and aggressive behaviour as 'attacks' or 'spells'.

 

Symptoms of Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED)

Before the aggressive impulses and aggressive behaviour there may be a build up of tension. During the aggressive impulses and aggressive behaviour there may be increased energy, irritability, and racing thoughts. After the aggressive impulses and aggressive behaviour there may be a sense of relief, then feelings of depression, distress, embarrassment, fatigue, regret, or remorse. Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED) may result in difficulties in personal relationships and work relationships.

Causes of Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED)

Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED) may be related to problem anger, anxiety disorders, childhood issues, or eating disorders. Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED) may also be related to other Impulse Control Disorders (ICD), having first degree relatives with Impulse Control Disorders (ICD), stress, mood disorders, or having first degree relatives with mood disorders. Narcissistic traits, obsessive traits, paranoid traits, or schizoid traits may cause anger outbursts when stress is also present.

 

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