Story perspectives

Study Reveals Aggression Linked to Adolescent Social Anxiety

2/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

New research shows that social anxiety in adolescents can manifest through aggression and impulsivity, not only avoidance.
The study, led by Mollie J. Eriksson, analyzed 298 adolescents aged 12 to 17 and identified three profiles.
The largest profile showed low social anxiety.
A second profile showed high social anxiety with vulnerable narcissism.
A third profile comprised 25% of participants and displayed moderate social anxiety with high impulsivity and aggression.

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Story summary

New research shows that social anxiety in adolescents can manifest through aggression and impulsivity, not only avoidance.
The study, led by Mollie J. Eriksson, analyzed 298 adolescents aged 12 to 17 and identified three profiles.
The largest profile showed low social anxiety.
A second profile showed high social anxiety with vulnerable narcissism.
A third profile comprised 25% of participants and displayed moderate social anxiety with high impulsivity and aggression.