Causes of Aggressive Behaviour and Methods of Protecting Our Children from It  (Part 2)

By: Dr. Mohammed Awad Mahmoud

mohammed.osman@ipag.fr

Aggressive behaviour is a complex issue with multiple causes, making it difficult to

address through a single solution. It is important to recognise that responsibility for

managing and preventing aggressive behaviour does not rest solely with schools or

families. Rather, effective intervention requires cooperation among schools, parents,

and the wider community. Broadly speaking, there are two approaches to addressing

aggressive behaviour: preventive (indirect) measures and direct intervention.

Preventive measures focus on reducing the likelihood of aggressive behaviour before it

occurs. One important aspect of prevention is monitoring the content to which children

are exposed through visual, audio, and written media. Children and adolescents,

particularly those in primary and secondary education, are highly impressionable and

often imitate behaviours they observe without fully distinguishing between positive and

negative influences. For this reason, parents and educators should exercise caution

regarding the media content children consume.

However, controlling media influence is increasingly challenging in today’s world.

Modern media platforms continue to expand and compete for public attention through

a wide range of content. As a result, limiting children’s exposure to violent or harmful

material requires a collective effort involving families, educators, policymakers, and

media organisations.

Another important preventive strategy is improving the educational environment.

Schools should strive to create a positive atmosphere that encourages learning,

creativity, productivity, and a love of knowledge. This requires well-trained teachers

who possess both professional competence and the ability to support students

emotionally and academically. Educational institutions should also establish clear

policies that discourage harsh treatment and promote respect, fairness, and positive

discipline.

Attention should also be given to the psychological well-being of students who display

aggressive behaviour. Teachers, counsellors, and parents should work together to

identify underlying causes, including family difficulties, emotional challenges,

behavioural problems, or mental health concerns. Once these factors are identified,

students should receive appropriate support to overcome their difficulties, correct

harmful habits, and develop healthier ways of expressing their emotions and interacting

with others.

Direct intervention becomes necessary when aggressive behaviour has already

occurred. In such cases, it is essential to respond carefully and thoughtfully to avoid

worsening the situation. Guidance and counselling should be the first step. Teachers,

school counsellors, or social workers can help students understand that not all desires

can be fulfilled immediately and that successful relationships require cooperation,

patience, and mutual respect. Students should also learn that violence rarely solves

problems and often creates further conflict.