Intermittent explosive disorder is marked by sudden, unpredictable acts of violent, aggressive behavior in otherwise normal persons. The reaction is out of proportion to the event that triggers or provokes the outburst.
The exact cause of intermittent explosive disorder is not known. Some evidence suggests there may be a link between this disorder and mild neurological problems similar to those associated with some learning disabilities.
The cause of intermittent explosive disorder is not known. It may be caused by an abnormality in the nervous system. Things that increase a person's risk for the disorder include the following: