OCD Chicago

Ask the Experts

My Daughter Has Become Violent

Posted on Friday, January 09, 2009

Question:  My daughter has OCD and has now become violent when she has her anxiety tantrums. I am not sure how to handle this type of behavior. Can you please help?

Providence, RI

Answer:  When a family member has OCD it impacts everyone involved.  Frustration and anger are common responses to anxiety but violent behavior is not the norm and should be evaluated by a professional.  The primary objective is to make sure that all family members remain safe.  Strategies for handling aggressive behavior would vary quite a bit depending on your daughter’s age and other specifics of the situation.  Working with a trained cognitive-behavioral therapist would help you to determine the triggers for your daughter’s behavior, find ways to work as a family to manage it and, of course, treat the anxiety that may underlie it.  If a cognitive-behavioral therapist is not available in your area, ask your family doctor for help in addressing this situation or finding appropriate resources. 

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