AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR IN PRESCHOOLERS: CONCEPTS AND MANIFESTATIONS

DOI: 10.18173/2354-1067.2025-0031

Abstract

This article adopts a theoretical research approach, employing analysis, comparison, and synthesis of 27 academic sources to present a comprehensive overview of diverse perspectives on aggressive behavior in preschoolers in the Vietnamese context. Rather than viewing aggression as a pathological condition or a moral failing, the study conceptualizes it as a maladaptive behavior that may occur during the natural course of child development. Aggressive behavior in preschoolers is defined by three core characteristics: (1) intentionality to cause harm, (2) the infliction of harm, and (3) the direction of harm toward a specific target. Preschool-aged children typically express aggression in three primary forms: verbal, physical, and relational. Notably, in contrast to international findings, Vietnamese preschoolers frequently exhibit physical and relational aggression concurrently. The study highlights the importance of early identification and recognition of these behaviors to enable timely and contextually appropriate interventions that support healthy personality development from an early age.