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Impulse control and conduct

Intermittent explosive disorder

Repeated outbursts of disproportionate anger (verbal or physical) that the person cannot control and usually regrets.

Common signs

Disproportionate outbursts of angerDamage to objects or othersGuilt or shame afterwards

Tips

For you

  1. Spot the early signs of anger
  2. Step away and breathe before responding
  3. Emotion regulation therapy

For family and friends

  1. Step away during the outburst and pick up the conversation calmly later
  2. Set clear limits on violence

When to ask for help

  1. If there is aggression: protect yourself and call 112 or 016
  2. If alcohol or drugs are involved

Guidance test

Answer thinking about the last few weeks. There are 8 questions and you get your result straight away. Your answers are not saved or sent.

0 of 8
1. I have outbursts of anger I can't control
2. My reaction is out of proportion
3. I shout, insult or break things
4. I have ended up attacking someone
5. Afterwards I regret it
6. The outbursts come on suddenly
7. They have caused me problems at home or at work
8. It happens to me several times a month
Also take the full stress test →

Free resources

Downloadable PDF sheetSigns, tips and resources to print or saveFree guidance call with our teamFree resource from Clínica Vivaldi016: support for victims of gender-based violence (Spain)Free external resourceAll our free guidesFree resource from Clínica Vivaldi

Related disorders

Oppositional defiant disorderImpulse control and conductConduct disorderImpulse control and conductPyromaniaImpulse control and conductKleptomaniaImpulse control and conduct

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Reviewed by María Teresa Fernández Vicente, health psychologist and neuropsychologist (registration no. CV17304), in November 2026. Educational information prepared by the Clínica Vivaldi team based on the DSM-5-TR classification. It does not replace a professional assessment and cannot be used to diagnose.