Which feature defines Intermittent Explosive Disorder?

• A. Recurrent outbursts representing failure to control aggressive impulses
• B. Chronic sadness
• C. Avoidance of social situations
• D. Cognitive slowing or impairment

Answer: (A)

Intermittent Explosive Disorder is defined by impulsive, recurrent aggression. The hallmark is repeated episodes where a person cannot resist aggressive impulses, leading to sudden, excessive verbal or physical outbursts that are out of proportion to the trigger and cause distress or impairment. This pattern of failing to control impulses and the episodic nature of the aggression distinguishes it from other conditions.

Chronic sadness suggests a mood disorder like major depression, which centers on persistent depressive mood rather than explosive impulse control. Avoidance of social situations points to social anxiety or avoidant personality, which is about fear and withdrawal, not impulsive aggression. Cognitive slowing or impairment points toward a neurocognitive or medical issue that affects thinking speed or processing, not impulse control during aggressive outbursts.