Aggression in a three-year-old manifests as physical or verbal actions intended to cause harm or distress. This behavior can range from hitting, biting, and kicking to yelling, name-calling, and defiance. An example includes a child striking a sibling to obtain a toy or throwing a tantrum when denied a desired item.
Understanding the origins of such behavior is crucial for effective intervention. Addressing underlying causes promotes healthy emotional development and social skills. A historical perspective reveals that varying parenting styles and societal expectations have influenced interpretations of and responses to childhood aggression over time.