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Although mental illness accounts for only 4% of aggressive behavior in the general population, there remains a modest association between aggressive behavior and psychotic disorders, particularly in the early stages of the illness. However, little is known about the specific factors associated to this increased risk.

The present study aims to assess the rates, characteristics and risk factors of aggressive behavior in first episode psychosis patients (FEP).

We conducted a retrospective chart review of 449 FEP patients recruited from an outpatient early psychosis clinic. Aggressive behavior and clinical information were rated based upon information gathered from the chart review of data collected at baseline and after 6 months of follow-up.

Rates of aggressive behavior were 54.3% in FEP patients. Aggressive behavior was significantly associated with higher rates of history of birth …