Citation

Tonnaer F, van Zutphen L, Raine A, Cima M. Handb. Clin. Neurol. 2023; 197: 87-106.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/B978-0-12-821375-9.00002-5

PMID

37633721

Abstract

Neurobiological models propose that reactive aggression is predicated on impairments in amygdala-prefrontal connectivity that subserves moral decision-making and emotion regulation. The amygdala is a key component within this neural network that modulates reactive aggression. We provide a review of amygdala dysfunctional brain networks leading to reactive aggressive behavior. We elaborate on key concepts, focusing on moral decision-making and emotion regulation in a developmental context, and brain network connectivity factors relating to amygdala (dys)function-factors which we suggest predispose to reactive aggression. We additionally discuss insights into the latest treatment interventions, providing the utilization of the scientific findings for practice.

Language: en

Keywords

Anger; Emotion regulation; Reactive aggression; Prefrontal cortex; Amygdala; Functional connectivity; Moral decision-making; Moral development