Impulse Control Disorder in Children

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 1, 2024.

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What is impulse control disorder (ICD)?

ICD is a term used to describe conditions that affect your child's ability to control his or her impulses. An impulse is a sudden, strong urge or desire. Your child may act on an impulse even though he or she knows it is harmful.

What increases my child's risk for ICD?

The cause of ICD is not known. Any of the following may increase your child's risk:

A family history of ICD
A condition such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Exposure to community violence
Abuse or neglect

What are the signs and symptoms of ICD?

Signs and symptoms depend on the type of ICD your child has:

Increased irritability or anger
Aggressive behavior towards others or animals
Purposely breaking rules or laws
Starting fires, stealing, or destroying property
Argumentative or combative
Emotional outbursts or temper tantrums that happen often

How is ICD diagnosed and treated?

Your child's healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms and when they started. Your child's provider may ask about your family history and parenting style. Your child's provider may also ask about your child's behavior at school. Treatment will depend on the type of ICD your child has and how severe his or her symptoms are. Your child may need any of the following:

Medicines may be given if your child also has anxiety, depression, or ADHD.
Parent management training (PMT) teaches parents skills to help improve their child's behavior. A therapist will help parents create a parenting plan. This plan includes how to use positive reinforcement and discipline your child.
Multisystemic therapy (MST) may be needed if your teen has legal problems or substance use problems. MST is a short-term intensive therapy treatment. MST helps identify the risk factors that are contributing to your teen's behavior.
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) teaches your child different ways to solve problems and make healthy decisions. A therapist will help your child identify thought patterns that are not healthy and understand how they affect his or her behavior.

How can I help manage my child's ICD?

Create a schedule for your child. Set specific times for your child to complete homework or chores. Have your younger child take naps at the same times every day. A structured environment will help your child learn to follow rules.
Use positive reinforcement. Praise or reward your child's good behavior. This will help your child want to make good decisions more often.
Set boundaries with your child. Make a list of house rules for your child to follow. Post these rules in a common area in the home, such as the living room or kitchen. Tell your child what the consequences of breaking a rule will be, and follow through with discipline. Be consistent with discipline. Do not yell at your child or use physical punishment.

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

Your child has hurt himself or herself on purpose.
Your child has hurt another person on purpose.

When should I seek immediate care?

You are concerned about your child's safety.

When should I call my child's doctor or therapist?

Your child's behavior is getting worse or more severe.
You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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