Treatment of childhood aggressivity with lithium

Based on animal experiments and clinical observations, it seems to be logical to try to use lithium carbonate not only in circulatory psychosis in early age but in auto- and heteroaggressive behavior disturbances, as well. This study gives an account of the therapeutic experience with seventeen children, whose age ranged between 3 and 12. The reason of their hospitalization was hyperaggressive and anti-social behavior. According to the catamnestic data, which were also verified by a Picture Frustration Test, significant clinical improvement could be registered in the case of 13 children. Side effects developed rather frequently but in a mild form.