Aggressive behaviour of children and adolescents -: clinical aspects of a psychosocial deficit

Aggressive behaviour is difficult to define multiform and widespread. Within the well known classification systems (such as ICD-10 and DSM-IV) it is appointed to conduct disorders, but it also is associated with other mental disorders. With regard to diagnosis behavioural analysis and medical history have the precedence of psychological tests, only in selected cases apparatus and laborarory techniques ore necessary. In the psychopathological development protective and risk factors determine the onset, extent and stability of antisocial behaviour. Furthermore temperament factors and group dynamics have to be considered. Below clinical evidence different prevention strategies in the field of intervention do exist. If symptoms of antisociality are evident, multidimensional programs of behaviour therapy seem to be appropriate, psychapharmacological treatment is less important. Considering the high stability of aggressive behaviour early investigation and treatment are very important especially in relation to prognosis.