Aggressive research in preschool children in order to provide recommendations and strategies for educators
Aggressive according to Rubio, F and Gali (2004):
It can be defined as a vital pulse, such as the energy that we all carry inside; therefore the problem appears when this energy is turned into negative energy and an excess of uncontrolled aggressive impulses leading to having no control of the individual, in this case, the child.
The Aggressive behavior is an external sign of hostility and hate, it could be against oneself and others. This behavior motivates in many ways the contempt of someone mates, miss behavior, inadequate relationships, social loneliness and in addition, difficulty to order ideas and thoughts as well.
Characteristics of aggressive children
The origin of aggression may have numerous causes, both internal as external, involving family or society. Hanke, B (1997) says that the child learns from his/her surrounding as well as different ways of behavior and patterns of the people who he/she interacts.
These factors and patterns involve:
*Preschool *Loss of one of the parent *Moving to another city *Birth of a new baby
These factors produce high levels of anxiety in the child, who is usually unable to overcome by his/her self; the child is unable to react in a social-accepted way in order to overcome his/her frustration. In previous research done on aggressive children.
Some characteristics they commonly present are:
- hyperactive
- anxious
- distracted
- impulsive
- Trouble-makers.
Between the most common behavior, that the children manifest is aggression:
- Disrespectful
- Like hitting
- Kicking
- Pushing
- Yelling
- Throwing things
They also have difficulties in adapting to social groups, and sometimes present difficulties and alterations in the learning process, due to some or all these factors.
Recommendations for aggressiveness prevention
- Stay calm
- Learn what triggers the aggressive behavior.
- Be a good example
- Set clear limits
- Discipline consistently
- Use logical consequences
- Reward good behavior
- Teach alternatives
- Limit media violence
- Provide an outlet
These recommendations are very useful and, if applied correctly the result will successful. If you find that the child continues to exhibit aggressive behavior out of your control and your efforts do not seem to make a difference is a good moment to recommend help from a professional.
Strategies for shaping of toddlers’ behavior
- Praise
- Selective ignoring
- Help the child learn that choices have consequences
- Motivators and rewards
- Reminders
- The art of negotiating
- Withdrawing Privileges
- No Nattering
Education of aggressive children can be one of the greatest challenges you will face as you weave your way through the maze of his or her development.
