How can (or could) biology inform more effective parenting interventions for childhood aggression?

Abstract

Recent decades have seen substantial research on the biology of childhood aggression. Here, we review whether and how insights from biological research have contributed to more effective treatments for aggression, with a focus on parenting interventions. We also outline specific strategies for researchers to integrate biological and clinical approaches to refine or augment parenting-focused interventions moving forward. In particular, we (1) evaluate the ability of biological data to provide unique and treatment-relevant insights into the mechanisms of aggression, beyond behavioral data; (2) outline ways of incorporating biological measures directly into clinical practice and possible drawbacks; and (3) discuss the privileged position of biological evidence in the eyes of policymakers and the public, including the potential to drive change at the risk of promoting biological essentialism. To meaningfully advance parenting interventions for childhood aggression, clinical scientists must be thoughtful about the promises and possible pitfalls of integrating biological and implementation-oriented approaches.