Adolescent Anger Linked to Faster Biological Aging: Study

News Desk

Islamabad: A new study suggests that anger and aggressive behaviour during adolescence may be linked to accelerated biological aging later in life, with some individuals showing signs of faster aging by the age of 30.

According to research published in the journal Health Psychology, adolescents who display higher levels of aggression are also more likely to gain weight by the time they reach 30.

The study examined 121 middle school students from urban and suburban areas across the United States. Researchers tracked their behaviour from the age of 13 through adolescence, collecting data on aggression, social difficulties and relationship conflicts during that period.

When the participants reached the age of 30, scientists assessed their biological age through blood tests. This approach measures the aging of cells and tissues, which can sometimes indicate that the body is biologically older than a person’s actual age.

The findings showed that individuals who exhibited higher levels of aggression during early adolescence tended to experience greater biological aging later in life.

The research also found that boys and individuals from low-income families were more likely to show signs of accelerated aging. Experts suggested that financial stress and strained relationships could be contributing factors.

According to researchers, boys often experience more conflict in relationships with their fathers, while adolescents from low-income backgrounds may be more reactive in peer interactions.

However, the study noted that early aggression itself does not directly cause biological aging unless it leads to persistent relationship difficulties and social stress later in life.

Experts say the findings underline the importance of helping young people develop stronger social skills and healthier ways to manage conflict, which could support better physical and mental health outcomes in adulthood.