Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED) is a psychological and behavioral disorder classified under the category of impulse control disorders. It is characterized by recurrent episodes of sudden and extreme anger, aggression, and destructive outbursts that are disproportionate to the triggering event or stimuli. These explosive outbursts are often impulsive, unprovoked, and occur without any prior warning signs.
Individuals with IED experience a lack of control over their anger, leading to the destruction of property, physical assaults on others, and even acts of violence. The aggressive outbursts typically produce feelings of relief, satisfaction, or calmness once the episode subsides, causing guilt, regret, and embarrassment later on.
To be diagnosed with IED, the pattern of explosive episodes must occur at least twice weekly over a period of three months or be categorized as having a destructive impact on the person's life or relationships. The symptoms should not be attributed to any other medical or psychiatric condition, substance abuse, or the effects of medication.
The exact cause of IED is still not fully understood, but researchers believe it involves a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors that contribute to the development of the disorder.
Treatment for Intermittent Explosive Disorder often involves a combination of psychotherapy, anger management techniques, stress reduction strategies, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and, in some cases, medication to manage underlying symptoms of depression, anxiety, or impulse control.
