While anger issues in youth can be unique and situational, there are a number of common causes that can trigger anger in teens. Let’s look at each of these in turn:
- Brain Development: Teen brains are still growing and developing, and this can affect an adolescent’s ability to regulate their anger.5
- Hormonal Changes: As children enter puberty, hormones change as their bodies develop and grow, and this can cause irritability and moodiness.
- Conflict With Parents: As teens begin to crave more independence and autonomy, this can create conflict with parents and caregivers.5
- Academic Pressure: It’s normal for teens to begin thinking about their future and worry about their school performance, or they may find school difficult and struggle to keep up.
- Managing Relationships: Some teens have difficulty managing conflicts in their relationships with their friends or romantic interests.
- Unresolved Trauma: Not fully processing or getting adequate support after a traumatic event can cause anger in teens.
- Low Self-esteem: Some teens feel inadequate when compared to their peers, or they may experience a painful romantic rejection.
