Managing Child Aggression in High-Conflict Families

Can childhood aggression be an unexpected plea for help rather than a precursor to a violent future? Join us as we welcome Davina Hehn, a respected behavioral analyst, to shed light on the nuances of child aggression, particularly in the tumultuous waters of high-conflict separations. Together, we unravel the complex web of emotions that children might express as aggression due to their struggle for communication and emotional regulation. Listen in as Davina shares her expertise on why this behavior is more about a cry for understanding than a predictor of future violence, and how recognizing problematic adolescent aggression can serve as a crucial step in offering the right support.

Family dynamics play a pivotal role in addressing aggression, and this episode uncovers the importance of involving the entire family in the therapeutic journey. We discuss how aggression often stems from feelings of isolation and how taking away a child's communication tools can exacerbate these feelings. We offer practical strategies to help families create a cohesive support network that includes trusted mentors and adults, emphasizing open communication to prevent escalation and foster mutual growth. Delve into the discussion on how transparent conversations about significant decisions, like sending a child away, can maintain a child's sense of agency and security.

In times of crisis, finding the right response can make all the difference. Here, we highlight the benefits of mobile mental health crisis centers and creating a supportive care team over traditional police involvement, which can sometimes intensify conflicts. Our conversation touches on the power of community support and the impact of parental narratives on child behavior, encouraging proactive crisis planning and engaging children in discussions about trust. As we wrap up, Davina, also known as Aady Space, shares her mission of helping others find balance, inviting listeners to explore her compelling online presence for more guidance in navigating life's challenges.