PSYCHOLOGISTS are continuing to study the deep space malady referred to as "intermittent explosive disorder." Temper outbursts that involve raiding, shooting and even crew abuse can sometimes be attributed to the disorder, though not everyone who does those things is afflicted. And new studies suggest it is far more common than you might realize. IED, which has been nicknamed "asteroid rage" or "'roid rage," may affect hundreds of pilots and captains each day.
"People think it's just bad behavior and that you just need an attitude adjustment, but what they don't know ... is that there's a biology and cognitive science to this," says Zane Michaels, chairman of psychiatry at the Saturn Station medical school.
By definition, intermittent explosive disorder involves multiple outbursts that are way out of proportion to the situation. These angry outbursts often include threats or aggressive actions and property damage.
The disorder's outbursts seem to come in 4 distinct stages: Normal spaceflight, boredom, building anger, and finally, the explosive outburst.
The findings show the little-studied disorder is much more common than previously thought. "It is news to a lot of people, even those who are specialists in mental health services, that such a large proportion of the population has these clinically significant anger attacks," Michaels said.
"We are now much more able to define the progression and impact of this disease," said Dr. David Rasputin, professor of spacelane studies. "The findings also confirm that for most people, the difficulties associated with the disorder begin during childhood or adolescence, and they often have a profound and ongoing impact on the person's life." There is currently no treatment or cure for 'Roid Rage, but with further study, it is hoped that treatment can be found.
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