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Anger | Psychology Today
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Anger: Characteristics, Complications, and Causes
Anger: Characteristics, Complications, and Causes
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Self-Improvement
Understanding Anger
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Anger is an intense emotion you feel when something has gone wrong or someone has wronged you. It is typically characterized by feelings of stress, frustration, and irritation. Everyone feels anger from time to time. It’s a perfectly normal response to frustrating or difficult situations.
Anger only becomes a problem when it’s excessively displayed and begins to affect your daily functioning and the way you relate with people. Anger can range in intensity, from a slight annoyance to rage. It can sometimes be excessive or irrational. In these cases, it can be hard to keep the emotion in check and could cause you to behave in ways you wouldn’t otherwise behave.
Anger Issues: Take the Test
Characteristics
When we are angry our body goes through certain biological and physiological changes. Examples of biological changes your body might go through include:
Increased energy levels
Raised blood pressure
Spike in hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline
Increase in body temperature
Increased muscle tension
Anger doesn’t look the same in everyone and we all express it in different ways. Some outward characteristics you might notice when you are angry include.
Raised voicesClenched fists Frowning or scowling A clenched jaw Physically trembling Rapid heartbeats Sweating excessively Pacing excessively
Complications
Anger is a completely normal and typically healthy emotion. However, it can be detrimental to both your emotional and physical health when you lose control of it. When you are angry your body goes through some physiological and biological changes.
Your heart rate quickens and your blood pressure spikes. Your body also releases hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline. Putting your body through these changes often, by repeatedly getting angry, can lead to medical conditions and complications such as:
High blood pressure
Depression
Anxiety
Insomnia
Substance abuse
Gastric ulcers
Bowel disease
Diabetes
Identifying Anger
Anger doesn’t look the same in everyone as we all express it differently. For some people, screaming might be an outlet for their anger while others might express it by physically hitting an object or even another person.
Anger is a normal human emotion, but it’s important to find healthy ways to express it so as not to alienate people around us. Expressing anger healthily is also important for your mental health.
Causes
Anger can be caused by either external or internal influences. A person or an event could make you angry. You could be angry because someone cut in line in front of you in line. You might feel angry when you are emotionally hurt, threatened, in pain, or in a confrontation.
Sometimes we use anger to replace other emotions we would rather not deal with, like emotional pain, fear, loneliness, or loss. In these cases, anger becomes a secondary emotion. Anger could be a reaction to physical pain, a response to feelings of fear, to protect yourself from a perceived attack, or in response to a frustrating situation.
Anger is often caused by a trigger this could be either rational or irrational. Some common triggers that cause anger include:
Dealing with the loss of a loved one
Losing a job
Going through a breakup
Failing at a job or a task
Being fatigued
Getting in an accident or getting a condition that causes physical changes in your body (for example, losing your sight or your ability to walk)
Anger could also be a symptom or response to a medical condition. Anger could be a symptom of depression, substance abuse, ADHD, or bipolar disorder.
Types of Anger
There are three main types of anger.
Passive-Aggressive Anger: Here, a person tries to repress their anger to avoid dealing with it but typically ends up expressing it in unhealthy and undermining ways.
Assertive Anger: This can be a healthy option for expressing anger. It involves handling anger in a controlled manner by using your words to calmly explain and try to diffuse the situation. Here, anger is expressed in a non-threatening way.
Openly Aggressive Anger: This type of anger might be accompanied by physical or verbal aggression such as screaming or hitting things. The aim of this type of anger is typically to hurt the person the anger is directed at emotionally or physically.
Anger can also be expressed in either one of two ways: verbally or nonverbally.
Verbally: When a person expresses their anger verbally, you are likely to see them raise their voices. They might become insulting and say hurtful things if their anger is directed at another person. Nonverbally: You’ll notice some slight physical changes in a person who expresses their anger nonverbally. They might frown or scowl and clench their jaws and fist. They might also lash out at another person or object, sometimes causing physical damage to the person or object and in some cases even hurting themselves.
The two ways people express their anger are not mutually exclusive and it’s possible to see a person expressing anger in both ways.
Treatment
Anger is a normal emotion we all feel, and for most people, they can find ways to express it in a healthy way. However, some people need treatment. The most common way to treat excessive anger is with therapy.
Therapy
For most people, it’s easy to identify the triggers and emotions behind their anger. But some people experience anger suddenly and intensely without being able to curb it or identify the triggers behind it.
If you are experiencing frequent and intense bursts of anger that are causing physical and emotional damage to you or the people around you then you might need professional help with dealing with your anger.
Anger management therapy is used to help you learn healthy ways to cope with the emotion.
Coping
Finding ways to cope with anger is very important. When we allow anger to take control of our lives, it can affect everything we do. It can damage relationships with our loved ones and cause problems in our workplace. If you’ve been finding it difficult to keep your anger in check in certain situations, here are a couple of coping mechanisms that can help.
Identify the Cause: The first step to coping with anger is identifying the root cause of your anger. It could be another emotion—maybe one of fear or loneliness. It could be an altercation you had or an unpleasant thought that came to mind.Meditate: Meditation is very beneficial in helping to control human emotions. You can start with simple meditation techniques like deep breathing exercises. When faced with a situation that makes you angry, take a second before reacting. You can take several deep breaths to calm yourself or try to count until you feel yourself become calmer. Work Out: Exercising isn’t just great for your physical health—it’s also beneficial for your mental health. It’s also a way to channel out emotions like anger in a useful and productive way. Going for a quick run or swim when you are angry could help defuse the emotion.Let It Out: Don’t bottle your anger up. Expressing your anger when you feel it is the healthiest way to get through it. Bottling up the emotion is most likely to cause a sudden and intense outburst when you least expect it. Avoid Triggers: If you are quick to become angry, it’s useful to try to identify and avoid your triggers. If you are often triggered when having a conversation with a particular person or about a particular topic, avoid them or that topic until you’ve learned how to have better control over your anger.
How to Help Someone With Anger Issues
3 Sources
Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
American Psychological Association. How to recognise and deal with anger. 2012
Staicu M, Cuţov M. Anger and health risk behaviors. J Med Life. 2010;3(4):372-375.
Williams R. Anger as a basic emotion and its role in personality building and pathological growth: the neuroscientific, developmental and clinical perspectives. Front Psychol. 2017;8.
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Toketemu has been multimedia storyteller for the last four years. Her expertise focuses primarily on mental wellness and women’s health topics.
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anger是什么意思_anger的翻译_音标_读音_用法_例句_爱词霸在线词典
r是什么意思_anger的翻译_音标_读音_用法_例句_爱词霸在线词典首页翻译背单词写作校对词霸下载用户反馈专栏平台登录anger是什么意思_anger用英语怎么说_anger的翻译_anger翻译成_anger的中文意思_anger怎么读,anger的读音,anger的用法,anger的例句翻译人工翻译试试人工翻译翻译全文简明柯林斯牛津anger高中/CET4/CET6英 [ˈæŋɡə(r)]美 [ˈæŋɡər]释义常用高考讲解n.愤怒，怒气v.激怒，使生气大小写变形:Anger点击 人工翻译，了解更多 人工释义词态变化第三人称单数: angers;过去式: angered;过去分词: angered;现在分词: angering;实用场景例句全部生气愤怒怒气愤懑激怒〈旧恼火发怒He was filled with anger at the way he had been treated.他因遭受如此待遇而怒火满腔。牛津词典Jan slammed her fist on the desk in anger .简气愤地捶打桌子。牛津词典the growing anger and frustration of young unemployed people年轻失业者日益增长的愤怒和沮丧牛津词典The question clearly angered him.这个问题显然激怒了他。牛津词典He cried with anger and frustration...他愤怒而又沮丧得哭了起来。柯林斯高阶英语词典Ellen felt both despair and anger at her mother.埃伦对她的母亲感到既绝望又生气。柯林斯高阶英语词典The decision to allow more offshore oil drilling angered some Californians.允许进行更多近海石油钻探的决定激怒了一些加利福尼亚人。柯林斯高阶英语词典She was completely taken aback by his anger.他勃然大怒把她吓了一大跳.《简明英汉词典》Don't provoke him to anger.别招他生气.《现代汉英综合大词典》The enemy's atrocities made one boil with anger.敌人的暴行令人发指.《现代汉英综合大词典》Her speech evoked great anger.她的讲话引起了极大的愤慨.《简明英汉词典》In his anger he grasped the child and shook him violently.愤怒之下,他抓住孩子狠命地摇.《简明英汉词典》He was able to hold back his anger and avoid a fight.他忍住了怒气,避免了一场殴斗.《现代汉英综合大词典》I excited him to anger.我把他激怒了.《现代汉英综合大词典》Say something to mollify his anger.你去解劝几句,叫他别生气了.《现代汉英综合大词典》I tried my best to soothe his anger.我尽力劝慰他不要生气.《现代汉英综合大词典》Her voice was husky with anger.她的声音因愤怒而沙哑.《简明英汉词典》The smile on her face disarmed his anger.她脸上的微笑消除了他的火气.《现代汉英综合大词典》But I have refined everything away by this time — anger, indignation, scorn itself. Nothing left but disgust.到这时,我一切不平都没有了——发火, 愤慨, 嘲笑本身. 什么都没了,只有厌恶.《简明英汉词典》There was a glint of anger in his eyes.他的眼睛闪着愤怒的光.《简明英汉词典》His complex anger flamed afresh , and Ruth was in terror of him.他的无名火又冒上来了, 罗丝见他真害怕.《简明英汉词典》His face was ablaze with anger.他满脸怒容.《简明英汉词典》She was rending her hair out in anger.她气愤得直扯自己的头发.《简明英汉词典》He reddened with anger.他气得脸通红.《现代英汉综合大词典》In her anger she compressed her lips so tightly that they went white.她生气时把嘴闭得很紧,嘴唇都变白了.《简明英汉词典》His face firmed and he spoke with restrained anger.他把脸一沉,按捺着火气说话.《简明英汉词典》He clenched his fists in anger.他愤怒地攥紧了拳头。《牛津高阶英汉双解词典》收起实用场景例句真题例句全部四级六级高考考研Passionate, energetic debate does not require anger and hard feelings to be effective.出自-2015年12月阅读原文Dr William Bird, researcher from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, states in his study, "A natural environment can reduce violent behaviour because its restorative process helps reduce anger and impulsive behaviour.出自-2010年12月阅读原文Even when they stay on the right side of the law, Internet providers arouse customers' anger over bandwidth speed and cost.2017年6月四级真题（第二套）阅读 Section AOne emotion males are allowed to express is anger.出自-2010年12月阅读原文Sometimes this anger translates into physical aggression or violence出自-2010年12月阅读原文It's become so iconic that attempts to change its taste in 1985—sweetening it in a move projected to boost sales—proved disastrous, with widespread anger from consumers.2017年12月六级真题（第一套）阅读 Section CSo much research has explored the way in which collegial ties can help overcome a range of workplace issues affecting productivity and the quality of work output such as team-based conflict, jealousy, undermining, anger, and more.2019年6月六级真题（第三套）阅读 Section CThese emotions included interest, joy, surprise, sadness, anger, disgust, contempt, and fear.2019年12月六级真题（第一套）听力 Section CAlso, sometimes pre-anger does not have to do with a lasting condition, but rather a temporary state before a triggering event has occurred.2018年高考英语北京卷 阅读理解 七选五 原文Anger is a particularly strong feeling and Maybe people think that they have reasons to feel angry.2018年高考英语北京卷 阅读理解 七选五 原文Anger seems simple when we are feeling it, but the causes of anger are various.2018年高考英语北京卷 阅读理解 七选五 原文Having these personality traits implies the pre-anger state, where anger is in the background of your mind.2018年高考英语北京卷 阅读理解 七选五 原文However, anger can easily turn violent, and it is best to know the reasons for anger to appear in order to prevent its presence.2018年高考英语北京卷 阅读理解 七选五 原文Middle-aged homemakers, retirees, and the unemployed come to such cafes to talk about love, anger, and dreams with a psychologist.2015年高考英语全国卷1 阅读理解 阅读D 原文Our attitude and viewpoint on situations can create anger within us as well.2018年高考英语北京卷 阅读理解 七选五 原文Readers also tended to share articles that were exciting or funny, or that inspired negative feelings like anger or anxiety, but not articles that left them merely sad.2016年高考英语全国卷3 阅读理解 阅读D 原文Sometimes even routine occurrences become sources of pre-anger, or anger itself.2018年高考英语北京卷 阅读理解 七选五 原文Sometimes ignorance and negative outlooks on situations can create anger.2018年高考英语北京卷 阅读理解 七选五 原文The most awkward email mistake is usually committed in anger.2017年高考英语天津卷 阅读理解 阅读A 原文The shock and anger when a social media firm does something with data that people don't expect, even if users have apparently permission, show that the current situation isn't working.2016年高考英语上海卷 阅读理解 阅读C 原文Triggering events for anger are so many that to describe them all would take hundreds of pages.2018年高考英语北京卷 阅读理解 七选五 原文Understanding these reasons will control our own anger if we are willing to evaluate ourselves with a critical eye.2018年高考英语北京卷 阅读理解 七选五 原文With these main reasons in mind, we can evaluate our level of anger throughout the day and prevent cases of outbursts by comprehending the reasons for our feelings.2018年高考英语北京卷 阅读理解 七选五 原文Jealousy and anger, for example, may have evolved to alert us to important inequalities.2019年考研真题（英语二）阅读理解 Section ⅡUnlike so-called basic emotions such as sadness, fear, and anger, guilt emerges a little later, in conjunction with a child's growing grasp of social and moral norms.2019年考研真题（英语二）阅读理解 Section Ⅱ收起真题例句英英释义Noun1. a strong emotion; a feeling that is oriented toward some real or supposed grievance2. the state of being angry3. belligerence aroused by a real or supposed wrong (personified as one of the deadly sins)Verb1. make angry;"The news angered him"2. become angry;"He angers easily"收起英英释义同义词辨析anger, indignation, fury, rage, wrath这些名词均含"愤怒"之意。anger：普通用词，通常指因受到侮辱、损害、指责或顶撞等而引起的愤怒。indignation：较正式用词，指出于正义或对不公正之事而发出的愤怒。 fury：语气最强，指极端的气愤，甚至达到发疯的程度。rage：侧重突然而猛列发作，难以控制的大怒。wrath：文学用词，含义与anger相近，但语气强，含欲加惩罚或报复的意味。同义词n.愤怒;生气irritationirevexationfuryrageindignationannoyancewrathexasperation其他释义piqueresentmentfuryireviolenceexasperateannoyancewarmthirritateprovokeenragespiteirritationwrathinflamenettleragechafeinfuriatedispleaseembitterpassiondispleasure反义词n.发怒;生气forbearancepatiencecalmself-controlvt. & vi.生气;soothecalmcomposeappeasequiet其他释义pacifycomposeappeasesootheforbearancecalmquietpatience释义词态变化实用场景例句真题例句英英释义同义词辨析同义词Microsoft Bing Travel
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anger 在英语-中文（简体）词典中的翻译
angernoun [ U ] uk
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/ˈæŋ.ɡər/ us
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/ˈæŋ.ɡɚ/
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B2 a strong feeling that makes you want to hurt someone or be unpleasant because of something unfair or unkind that has happened
怒，愤怒；怒火
I think he feels a lot of anger towards his father, who treated him very badly as a child.
我想，他对父亲耿耿于怀，是因为小时候受到了他的虐待。
There is a danger that anger at the new law may turn into anti-government feeling.
存在着一种危险，即对于新颁布的法律的怨愤可能会转化成反政府情绪。
The people showed no surprise or anger at their treatment.
人们对他们的遭遇没有表现出任何意外和愤怒。
He found it hard to contain (= control) his anger.
他感到怒不可遏。
更多范例减少例句Her cheeks were aflame with anger.We are demonstrating to show our anger and disgust at the treatment of refugees.His apology took the edge off her anger.The new tax caused a huge amount of public anger.Her comments provoked an outburst of anger from the boss.
angerverb [ T ] uk
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/ˈæŋ.ɡər/ us
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/ˈæŋ.ɡɚ/
to make someone angry
使生气，激怒
The remark angered him.
这句话激怒了他。
It always angers me to see so much waste.
看到如此严重的浪费，我总是感到很气愤。
(anger在剑桥英语-中文（简体）词典的翻译 © Cambridge University Press)
anger的例句
anger
Because of that, he may have angered the security services.
来自 Hansard archive
该例句来自Hansard存档。包含以下议会许可信息开放议会许可v3.0
Recently, tenants denied the opportunity to buy have been angered to see vacant houses on the estate sold on the open market.
来自 Hansard archive
该例句来自Hansard存档。包含以下议会许可信息开放议会许可v3.0
What appals, puzzles and angers me is the basic neglect which still continues so far as elementary police needs are concerned.
来自 Hansard archive
该例句来自Hansard存档。包含以下议会许可信息开放议会许可v3.0
Like our constituents, many of us have been confused over the years and are sometimes angered by what happens.
来自 Hansard archive
该例句来自Hansard存档。包含以下议会许可信息开放议会许可v3.0
We were greatly angered by the arrest last month of proponents of a multi-party system.
来自 Hansard archive
该例句来自Hansard存档。包含以下议会许可信息开放议会许可v3.0
There are 300,000 people over 65 in that category—some are my constituents—and they will be deeply angered by the change.
来自 Hansard archive
该例句来自Hansard存档。包含以下议会许可信息开放议会许可v3.0
Parents, students and teachers in higher education are angered by the present confusion and uncertainty.
来自 Hansard archive
该例句来自Hansard存档。包含以下议会许可信息开放议会许可v3.0
I am not filled with affection for free enterprise, and it angers me that the shareholders' interests are always considered in a takeover.
来自 Hansard archive
该例句来自Hansard存档。包含以下议会许可信息开放议会许可v3.0
示例中的观点不代表剑桥词典编辑、剑桥大学出版社和其许可证颁发者的观点。
B2
anger的翻译
中文（繁体）
怒，憤怒, 怒火, 使生氣，激怒…
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cólera, ira, enfadar…
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நியாயமற்ற அல்லது கொடூரமான ஒன்று நடந்ததால் நீங்கள் ஒருவரை காயப்படுத்த விரும்புகிறீர்கள் அல்லது விரும்பத்தகாததாக இருக்கும் ஒரு வலுவான உணர்வு…
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vrede, gøre vred…
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রাগ, ক্রোধ…
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hněv, zlost, rozhněvat…
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a flush of anger, excitement, pleasure, etc.
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lifestyle
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/ˈlaɪf.staɪl/
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someone's way of living; the things that a person or particular group of people usually do
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Control anger before it controls you
Control anger before it controls you
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Anger
Control anger before it controls you
Anger can make you feel as though you’re at the mercy of an unpredictable and powerful emotion. Learn how to control it.
Last updated: November 3, 2023
Date created: March 3, 2022
14 min read
Anger
Cite This Article
American Psychological Association. (2023, November 3). Control anger before it controls you. https://www.apa.org/topics/anger/control
Comment:
We all know what anger is, and we’ve all felt it: whether as a fleeting annoyance or as full-fledged rage. Anger is a completely normal, usually healthy, human emotion. But when it gets out of control and turns destructive, it can lead to problems—problems at work, in your personal relationships, and in the overall quality of your life.
Anger can make you feel as though you’re at the mercy of an unpredictable and powerful emotion.
What is anger?
The nature of anger
Anger is “an emotional state that varies in intensity from mild irritation to intense fury and rage,” according to Charles Spielberger, PhD, a psychologist who specializes in the study of anger. Like other emotions, it is accompanied by physiological and biological changes; when you get angry, your heart rate and blood pressure go up, as do the levels of your energy hormones, adrenaline, and noradrenaline.
Anger can be caused by both external and internal events. You could be angry at a specific person (such as a coworker or supervisor) or event (a traffic jam, a canceled flight), or your anger could be caused by worrying or brooding about your personal problems. Memories of traumatic or enraging events can also trigger angry feelings.
Expressing anger
The instinctive, natural way to express anger is to respond aggressively. Anger is a natural, adaptive response to threats; it inspires powerful, often aggressive, feelings and behaviors, which allow us to fight and to defend ourselves when we are attacked. A certain amount of anger, therefore, is necessary to our survival.
On the other hand, we can’t physically lash out at every person or object that irritates or annoys us; laws, social norms, and common sense place limits on how far our anger can take us.
[Related: Want to achieve your goals? Get angry]
People use a variety of both conscious and unconscious processes to deal with their angry feelings. The three main approaches are expressing, suppressing, and calming. Expressing your angry feelings in an assertive—not aggressive—manner is the healthiest way to express anger. To do this, you have to learn how to make clear what your needs are, and how to get them met, without hurting others. Being assertive doesn’t mean being pushy or demanding; it means being respectful of yourself and others.
Anger can be suppressed, and then converted or redirected. This happens when you hold in your anger, stop thinking about it, and focus on something positive. The aim is to inhibit or suppress your anger and convert it into more constructive behavior. The danger in this type of response is that if it isn’t allowed outward expression, your anger can turn inward—on yourself. Anger turned inward may cause hypertension, high blood pressure, or depression.
Unexpressed anger can create other problems. It can lead to pathological expressions of anger, such as passive-aggressive behavior (getting back at people indirectly, without telling them why, rather than confronting them head-on) or a personality that seems perpetually cynical and hostile. People who are constantly putting others down, criticizing everything, and making cynical comments haven’t learned how to constructively express their anger. Not surprisingly, they aren’t likely to have many successful relationships.
Finally, you can calm down inside. This means not just controlling your outward behavior, but also controlling your internal responses, taking steps to lower your heart rate, calm yourself down, and let the feelings subside.
As Dr. Spielberger notes, “when none of these three techniques work, that’s when someone—or something—is going to get hurt.”
Anger management
The goal of anger management is to reduce both your emotional feelings and the physiological arousal that anger causes. You can’t get rid of, or avoid, the things or the people that enrage you, nor can you change them, but you can learn to control your reactions.
Are you too angry?
There are psychological tests that measure the intensity of angry feelings, how prone to anger you are, and how well you handle it. But chances are good that if you do have a problem with anger, you already know it. If you find yourself acting in ways that seem out of control and frightening, you might need help finding better ways to deal with this emotion.
Why are some people more angry than others?
According to Jerry Deffenbacher, PhD, a psychologist who specializes in anger management, some people really are more “hotheaded” than others are; they get angry more easily and more intensely than the average person does. There are also those who don’t show their anger in loud spectacular ways but are chronically irritable and grumpy. Easily angered people don’t always curse and throw things; sometimes they withdraw socially, sulk, or get physically ill.
People who are easily angered generally have what some psychologists call a low tolerance for frustration, meaning simply that they feel that they should not have to be subjected to frustration, inconvenience, or annoyance. They can’t take things in stride, and they’re particularly infuriated if the situation seems somehow unjust: for example, being corrected for a minor mistake.
What makes these people this way? A number of things. One cause may be genetic or physiological: There is evidence that some children are born irritable, touchy, and easily angered, and that these signs are present from a very early age. Another may be sociocultural. Anger is often regarded as negative; we’re taught that it’s all right to express anxiety, depression, or other emotions but not to express anger. As a result, we don’t learn how to handle it or channel it constructively.
Research has also found that family background plays a role. Typically, people who are easily angered come from families that are disruptive, chaotic, and not skilled at emotional communications.
Is it good to “let it all hang out?”
Psychologists now say that this is a dangerous myth. Some people use this theory as a license to hurt others. Research has found that “letting it rip” with anger actually escalates anger and aggression and does nothing to help you (or the person you’re angry with) resolve the situation.
It’s best to find out what it is that triggers your anger, and then to develop strategies to keep those triggers from tipping you over the edge.
Strategies to keep anger at bay
Relaxation
Simple relaxation tools, such as deep breathing and relaxing imagery, can help calm down angry feelings. There are books and courses that can teach you relaxation techniques, and once you learn the techniques, you can call upon them in any situation. If you are involved in a relationship where both partners are hot-tempered, it might be a good idea for both of you to learn these techniques.
Some simple steps you can try:
Breathe deeply, from your diaphragm; breathing from your chest won’t relax you. Picture your breath coming up from your “gut.”
Slowly repeat a calm word or phrase such as “relax,” “take it easy.” Repeat it to yourself while breathing deeply.
Use imagery; visualize a relaxing experience, from either your memory or your imagination.
Nonstrenuous, slow yoga-like exercises can relax your muscles and make you feel much calmer.
Practice these techniques daily. Learn to use them automatically when you’re in a tense situation.
Cognitive restructuring
Simply put, this means changing the way you think. Angry people tend to curse, swear, or speak in highly colorful terms that reflect their inner thoughts. When you’re angry, your thinking can get very exaggerated and overly dramatic. Try replacing these thoughts with more rational ones. For instance, instead of telling yourself, “oh, it’s awful, it’s terrible, everything’s ruined,” tell yourself, “it’s frustrating, and it’s understandable that I’m upset about it, but it’s not the end of the world and getting angry is not going to fix it anyhow.”
Be careful of words like “never” or “always” when talking about yourself or someone else. “This !&*%@ machine never works,” or “you’re always forgetting things” are not just inaccurate, they also serve to make you feel that your anger is justified and that there’s no way to solve the problem. They also alienate and humiliate people who might otherwise be willing to work with you on a solution.
Remind yourself that getting angry is not going to fix anything, that it won’t make you feel better (and may actually make you feel worse).
Logic defeats anger, because anger, even when it’s justified, can quickly become irrational. So use cold hard logic on yourself. Remind yourself that the world is “not out to get you,” you’re just experiencing some of the rough spots of daily life. Do this each time you feel anger getting the best of you, and it’ll help you get a more balanced perspective. Angry people tend to demand things: fairness, appreciation, agreement, willingness to do things their way. Everyone wants these things, and we are all hurt and disappointed when we don’t get them, but angry people demand them, and when their demands aren’t met, their disappointment becomes anger.
As part of their cognitive restructuring, angry people need to become aware of their demanding nature and translate their expectations into desires. In other words, saying, “I would like” something is healthier than saying, “I demand” or “I must have” something. When you’re unable to get what you want, you will experience the normal reactions—frustration, disappointment, hurt—but not anger. Some angry people use this anger as a way to avoid feeling hurt, but that doesn’t mean the hurt goes away.
Problem solving
Sometimes, our anger and frustration are caused by very real and inescapable problems in our lives. Not all anger is misplaced, and often it’s a healthy, natural response to these difficulties. There is also a cultural belief that every problem has a solution, and it adds to our frustration to find out that this isn’t always the case. The best attitude to bring to such a situation, then, is not to focus on finding the solution, but rather on how you handle and face the problem.
Make a plan, and check your progress along the way. Resolve to give it your best, but also not to punish yourself if an answer doesn’t come right away. If you can approach it with your best intentions and efforts and make a serious attempt to face it head-on, you will be less likely to lose patience and fall into all-or-nothing thinking, even if the problem does not get solved right away.
Better communication
Angry people tend to jump to—and act on—conclusions, and some of those conclusions can be very inaccurate. The first thing to do if you’re in a heated discussion is slow down and think through your responses. Don’t say the first thing that comes into your head, but slow down and think carefully about what you want to say. At the same time, listen carefully to what the other person is saying and take your time before answering.
Listen, too, to what is underlying the anger. For instance, you like a certain amount of freedom and personal space, and your “significant other” wants more connection and closeness. If he or she starts complaining about your activities, don’t retaliate by painting your partner as a jailer, a warden, or an albatross around your neck.
It’s natural to get defensive when you’re criticized, but don’t fight back. Instead, listen to what’s underlying the words: the message that this person might feel neglected and unloved. It may take a lot of patient questioning on your part, and it may require some breathing space, but don’t let your anger—or a partner’s—let a discussion spin out of control. Keeping your cool can keep the situation from becoming a disastrous one.
Using humor
“Silly humor” can help defuse rage in a number of ways. For one thing, it can help you get a more balanced perspective. When you get angry and call someone a name or refer to them in some imaginative phrase, stop and picture what that word would literally look like. If you’re at work and you think of a coworker as a “dirtbag” or a “single-cell life form,” for example, picture a large bag full of dirt (or an amoeba) sitting at your colleague’s desk, talking on the phone, going to meetings. Do this whenever a name comes into your head about another person. If you can, draw a picture of what the actual thing might look like. This will take a lot of the edge off your fury; and humor can always be relied on to help unknot a tense situation.
The underlying message of highly angry people, Dr. Deffenbacher says, is “things oughta go my way!” Angry people tend to feel that they are morally right, that any blocking or changing of their plans is an unbearable indignity and that they should not have to suffer this way. Maybe other people do, but not them!
When you feel that urge, he suggests, picture yourself as a god or goddess, a supreme ruler, who owns the streets and stores and office space, striding alone and having your way in all situations while others defer to you. The more detail you can get into your imaginary scenes, the more chances you have to realize that maybe you are being unreasonable; you’ll also realize how unimportant the things you’re angry about really are. There are two cautions in using humor. First, don’t try to just “laugh off” your problems; rather, use humor to help yourself face them more constructively. Second, don’t give in to harsh, sarcastic humor; that’s just another form of unhealthy anger expression.
What these techniques have in common is a refusal to take yourself too seriously. Anger is a serious emotion, but it’s often accompanied by ideas that, if examined, can make you laugh.
Changing your environment
Sometimes it’s our immediate surroundings that give us cause for irritation and fury. Problems and responsibilities can weigh on you and make you feel angry at the “trap” you seem to have fallen into and all the people and things that form that trap.
Give yourself a break. Make sure you have some “personal time” scheduled for times of the day that you know are particularly stressful. One example is the working mother who has a standing rule that when she comes home from work, for the first 15 minutes “nobody talks to Mom unless the house is on fire.” After this brief quiet time, she feels better prepared to handle demands from her kids without blowing up at them.
Some other tips for easing up on yourself
Timing: If you and your spouse tend to fight when you discuss things at night—perhaps you’re tired, or distracted, or maybe it’s just habit—try changing the times when you talk about important matters so these talks don’t turn into arguments.
Avoidance: If your child’s chaotic room makes you furious every time you walk by it, shut the door. Don’t make yourself look at what infuriates you. Don’t say, “well, my child should clean up the room so I won’t have to be angry!” That’s not the point. The point is to keep yourself calm.
Finding alternatives: If your daily commute through traffic leaves you in a state of rage and frustration, give yourself a project—learn or map out a different route, one that’s less congested or more scenic. Or find another alternative, such as a bus or commuter train.
Do you need counseling?
If you feel that your anger is really out of control, if it is having an impact on your relationships and on important parts of your life, you might consider counseling to learn how to handle it better. A psychologist or other licensed mental health professional can work with you in developing a range of techniques for changing your thinking and your behavior.
When you talk to a prospective therapist, tell them that you have problems with anger that you want to work on, and ask about their approach to anger management. Make sure this isn’t only a course of action designed to “put you in touch with your feelings and express them”—that may be precisely what your problem is. With counseling, psychologists say, a highly angry person can move closer to a middle range of anger in about 8 to 10 weeks, depending on the circumstances and the techniques used.
What about assertiveness training?
It’s true that angry people need to learn to become assertive (rather than aggressive), but most books and courses on developing assertiveness are aimed at people who don’t feel enough anger. These people are more passive and acquiescent than the average person; they tend to let others walk all over them. That isn’t something that most angry people do. Still, these books can contain some useful tactics to use in frustrating situations.
Remember, you can’t eliminate anger—and it wouldn’t be a good idea if you could. In spite of all your efforts, things will happen that will cause you anger; and sometimes it will be justifiable anger. Life will be filled with frustration, pain, loss, and the unpredictable actions of others. You can’t change that; but you can change the way you let such events affect you. Controlling your angry responses can keep them from making you even more unhappy in the long run.
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Anger management: 10 tips to tame your temperKeeping your temper in check can be challenging. Use simple anger management tips — from taking a timeout to using "I" statements — to stay in control.By Mayo Clinic Staff
Do you fume when someone cuts you off in traffic? Does your blood pressure rocket when your child refuses to cooperate? Anger is a common and even healthy emotion. But it's important to deal with it in a positive way. Uncontrolled anger can take a toll on both your health and your relationships.
Ready to get your anger under control? Start by considering these 10 anger management tips.
1. Think before you speak
In the heat of the moment, it's easy to say something you'll later regret. Take a few moments to collect your thoughts before saying anything. Also allow others involved in the situation to do the same.
2. Once you're calm, express your concerns
As soon as you're thinking clearly, express your frustration in an assertive but nonconfrontational way. State your concerns and needs clearly and directly, without hurting others or trying to control them.
3. Get some exercise
Physical activity can help reduce stress that can cause you to become angry. If you feel your anger escalating, go for a brisk walk or run. Or spend some time doing other enjoyable physical activities.
4. Take a timeout
Timeouts aren't just for kids. Give yourself short breaks during times of the day that tend to be stressful. A few moments of quiet time might help you feel better prepared to handle what's ahead without getting irritated or angry.
5. Identify possible solutions
Instead of focusing on what made you mad, work on resolving the issue at hand. Does your child's messy room make you upset? Close the door. Is your partner late for dinner every night? Schedule meals later in the evening. Or agree to eat on your own a few times a week. Also, understand that some things are simply out of your control. Try to be realistic about what you can and cannot change. Remind yourself that anger won't fix anything and might only make it worse.
6. Stick with 'I' statements
Criticizing or placing blame might only increase tension. Instead, use "I" statements to describe the problem. Be respectful and specific. For example, say, "I'm upset that you left the table without offering to help with the dishes" instead of "You never do any housework."
7. Don't hold a grudge
Forgiveness is a powerful tool. If you allow anger and other negative feelings to crowd out positive feelings, you might find yourself swallowed up by your own bitterness or sense of injustice. Forgiving someone who angered you might help you both learn from the situation and strengthen your relationship.
8. Use humor to release tension
Lightening up can help diffuse tension. Use humor to help you face what's making you angry and, possibly, any unrealistic expectations you have for how things should go. Avoid sarcasm, though — it can hurt feelings and make things worse.
9. Practice relaxation skills
When your temper flares, put relaxation skills to work. Practice deep-breathing exercises, imagine a relaxing scene, or repeat a calming word or phrase, such as "Take it easy." You might also listen to music, write in a journal or do a few yoga poses — whatever it takes to encourage relaxation.
10. Know when to seek help
Learning to control anger can be a challenge at times. Seek help for anger issues if your anger seems out of control, causes you to do things you regret or hurts those around you.
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Show references
Kassinove H, et al. Happiness. In: The Practitioner's Guide to Anger Management: Customizable Interventions, Treatments, and Tools for Clients With Problem Anger. Kindle edition. New Harbinger Publications; 2019. Accessed March 11, 2022.
Understanding anger: How psychologists help with anger problems. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/topics/anger/understanding. Accessed March 11, 2022.
Controlling anger before it controls you. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/topics/anger/control. Accessed March 11, 2022.
Tips for survivors: Coping with anger after a disaster or other traumatic event. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. https://store.samhsa.gov/product/tips-survivors-coping-anger-after-disaster-or-other-traumatic-event/pep19-01-01-002. Accessed March 11, 2022.
Caring for your mental health. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health. Accessed March 11, 2022.
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Anger - Wikipedia
Anger - Wikipedia
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1Psychology and sociology
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1.1Neuropsychological perspective
2Differences between related concepts
3Characteristics
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3.1Passive anger
3.2Aggressive anger
3.3Assertive anger
3.4Six dimensions of anger expression
3.5Ethnicity and culture
4Causes
5Cognitive effects
6Expressive strategies
7Coping strategies
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7.1Therapy and behavioral strategies
7.2Medication therapy
7.3Suppression
8Dual threshold model
9Physiology
10Measuring anger
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10.1The Gallup World Poll
10.2Self-reports of Psychological Anger
11Philosophical perspectives
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11.1Ancient history
11.1.1Control methods
11.2Post-classical history
11.2.1By gender
11.2.1.1Women
11.2.1.2Men
11.2.2Control methods
11.3Modern perspectives
12Religious perspectives
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12.1Judaism
12.2Christianity
12.2.1Catholic
12.2.2Protestant
12.3Hinduism
12.4Buddhism
12.5Islam
12.6Divine retribution
13See also
14References
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14.1Further reading
14.1.1Books
14.1.2Articles
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Anger
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From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Intense hostile emotional state of mind
Several terms redirect here. For other uses, see Angry (disambiguation), Wrath (disambiguation), and Anger (disambiguation).
Facial expression of a person having emotions of anger
Part of a series onEmotions
Affect
Classification
In animals
Emotional intelligence
Mood
Regulation
Interpersonal
Dysregulation
Valence
Emotions
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Admiration
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Amusement
Anger
Angst
Anguish
Annoyance
Anticipation
Anxiety
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Awe
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Boredom
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Contempt
Contentment
Courage
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vte
Anger, also known as wrath (UK: /rɒθ/ R-OH-TH) or rage, is an intense emotional state involving a strong uncomfortable and non-cooperative response to a perceived provocation, hurt or threat.[1][2]
A person experiencing anger will often experience physical effects, such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and increased levels of adrenaline and noradrenaline.[3] Some view anger as an emotion which triggers part of the fight or flight response.[4] Anger becomes the predominant feeling behaviorally, cognitively, and physiologically when a person makes the conscious choice to take action to immediately stop the threatening behavior of another outside force.[5]
Anger can have many physical and mental consequences. The external expression of anger can be found in facial expressions, body language, physiological responses, and at times public acts of aggression. Facial expressions can range from inward angling of the eyebrows to a full frown.[6] While most of those who experience anger explain its arousal as a result of "what has happened to them", psychologists point out that an angry person can very well be mistaken because anger causes a loss in self-monitoring capacity and objective observability.[7]
Modern psychologists view anger as a normal, natural, and mature emotion experienced by virtually all humans at times, and as something that has functional value for survival. Uncontrolled anger can negatively affect personal or social well-being[7][8] and negatively impact those around them. While many philosophers and writers have warned against the spontaneous and uncontrolled fits of anger, there has been disagreement over the intrinsic value of anger.[9] The issue of dealing with anger has been written about since the times of the earliest philosophers, but modern psychologists, in contrast to earlier writers, have also pointed out the possible harmful effects of suppressing anger.[9]
Psychology and sociology[edit]
The Anger of Achilles, by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo depicts the Greek hero attacking Agamemnon.
Three types of anger are recognized by psychologists:[10]
Hasty and sudden anger is connected to the impulse for self-preservation. It is shared by humans and other animals, and it occurs when the animal feels tormented or trapped. This form of anger is episodic.
Settled and deliberate anger is a reaction to perceived deliberate harm or unfair treatment by others. This form of anger is episodic.
Dispositional anger is related more to character traits than to instincts or cognitions. Irritability, sullenness, and churlishness are examples of the last form of anger.
Anger can potentially mobilize psychological resources and boost determination toward correction of wrong behaviors, promotion of social justice, communication of negative sentiment, and redress of grievances. It can also facilitate patience. In contrast, anger can be destructive when it does not find its appropriate outlet in expression. Anger, in its strong form, impairs one's ability to process information and to exert cognitive control over one's behavior. An angry person may lose their objectivity, empathy, prudence or thoughtfulness and may cause harm to themselves or others.[7][11][12] There is a sharp distinction between anger and aggression (verbal or physical, direct or indirect) even though they mutually influence each other. While anger can activate aggression or increase its probability or intensity, it is neither a necessary nor a sufficient condition for aggression.[7]
Neuropsychological perspective[edit]
Extension of the stimuli of the fighting reactions: At the beginning of life, the human infant struggles indiscriminately against any restraining force, whether it be another human being or a blanket which confines their movements. There is no inherited susceptibility to social stimuli as distinct from other stimulation, in anger. At a later date the child learns that certain actions, such as striking, scolding, and screaming, are effective toward persons, but not toward things. In adults, though the infantile response is still sometimes seen, the fighting reaction becomes fairly well limited to stimuli whose hurting or restraining influence can be thrown off by physical violence.[13]
Brain regions which are activated when recognizing threat or provocation, and facilitate autonomic arousal and interoception and activate the stress response, are the salience network (dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and anterior insula cortex) and subcortical area (the thalamus, the amygdala, and the brain stem).[14][15]
Differences between related concepts[edit]
Raymond Novaco of University of California Irvine, who since 1975 has published a plethora of literature on the subject, stratified anger into three modalities: cognitive (appraisals), somatic-affective (tension and agitations), and behavioral (withdrawal and antagonism).[16]
The words annoyance and rage are often imagined to be at opposite ends of an emotional continuum: mild irritation and annoyance at the low end and fury at the high end. Rage problems are conceptualized as "the inability to process emotions or life's experiences"[17] either because the capacity to regulate emotion (Schore, 1994)[18] has never been sufficiently developed or because it has been temporarily lost due to more recent trauma. Rage is understood as raw, undifferentiated emotions, that spill out when another life event that cannot be processed, no matter how trivial, puts more stress on the organism than it can bear.
Anger, when viewed as a protective response or instinct to a perceived threat, is considered as positive. The negative expression of this state is known as aggression commits antisocial personality disorder.[19] Acting on this misplaced state is rage due to possible potential errors in perception and judgment.
Examples
Expressions of anger used negatively
Reasoning
Over-protective instinct and hostility
To avoid conceived loss or fear that something will be taken away.
Entitlement and frustration
To prevent a change in functioning.
Intimidation and rationalization
To meet one's own needs.
Characteristics[edit]
A visibly angered Washington Luís, President of Brazil (back seat) leaving the Guanabara Palace after his overthrow during the Revolution of 1930 (October 24).
William DeFoore, an anger management writer, described anger as a pressure cooker, stating that "we can only suppress or apply pressure against our happy for so long before it erupts".[20]
One simple dichotomy of anger expression is passive anger versus aggressive anger versus assertive anger. These three types of anger have some characteristic symptoms:[21]
Passive anger[edit]
Passive anger can be expressed in the following ways:[22]
Dispassion, such as giving someone the cold shoulder or a fake smile, looking unconcerned or "sitting on the fence" while others sort things out, dampening feelings with substance abuse, overreacting, oversleeping, not responding to another's anger, frigidity, indulging in sexual practices that depress spontaneity and make objects of participants, giving inordinate amounts of time to machines, objects or intellectual pursuits, talking of frustrations but showing no feeling.
Evasiveness, such as turning one's back in a crisis, avoiding conflict, not arguing back, becoming phobic.
Defeatism, such as setting people up for failure, choosing unreliable people to depend on, being accident prone, underachieving, sexual impotence, expressing frustration at insignificant things but ignoring serious ones.
Obsessive behavior, such as needing to be inordinately clean and tidy, making a habit of constantly checking things, over-dieting or overeating, demanding that all jobs be done perfectly.
Psychological manipulation, such as provoking people to aggression and then patronizing them, provoking aggression but staying on the sidelines, emotional blackmail, false tearfulness, feigning illness, sabotaging relationships, using sexual provocation, using a third party to convey negative feelings, withholding money or resources.
Secretive behavior, such as stockpiling resentments that are expressed behind people's backs, giving the silent treatment or under-the-breath mutterings, avoiding eye contact, putting people down, gossiping, anonymous complaints, poison pen letters, stealing, and conning.
Self-blame, such as apologizing too often, being overly critical, inviting criticism.
Aggressive anger[edit]
The symptoms of aggressive anger are:
Bullying, such as threatening people directly, persecuting, insulting, pushing or shoving, using power to oppress, shouting, driving someone off the road, playing on people's weaknesses.
Destruction, such as destroying objects as in vandalism, harming animals, child abuse, destroying a relationship, reckless driving, substance abuse.
Grandiosity, such as showing off, expressing mistrust, not delegating, being a sore loser, wanting center stage all the time, not listening, talking over people's heads, expecting kiss and make-up sessions to solve problems.
Hurtfulness, such as violence, including sexual abuse and rape, verbal abuse, biased or vulgar jokes, breaking confidence, using foul language, ignoring people's feelings, willfully discriminating, blaming, punishing people for unwarranted deeds, labeling others.
Risk-taking behavior, such as speaking too fast, walking too fast, driving too fast, reckless spending.
Selfishness, such as ignoring others' needs, not responding to requests for help, queue jumping.
Threats, such as frightening people by saying how one could harm them, their property or their prospects, finger pointing, fist shaking, wearing clothes or symbols associated with violent behavior, tailgating, excessively blowing a car horn, slamming doors.
Unjust blaming, such as accusing other people for one's own mistakes, blaming people for person's own feelings, making general accusations.
Unpredictability, such as explosive rages over minor frustrations, attacking indiscriminately, dispensing unjust punishment, inflicting harm on others for the sake of it,[23] illogical arguments.
Vengeance, such as being over-punitive. This differs from retributive justice, as vengeance is personal, and possibly unlimited in scale.
Assertive anger[edit]
Blame, such as after a particular individual commits an action that's possibly frowned upon, the particular person will resort to scolding. This is in fact, common in discipline terms.
Punishment, the angry person will give a temporary punishment to an individual like further limiting a child's will to do anything they want like playing video games, reading, (excluding schoolwork) etc., after they did something to cause trouble.
Sternness, such as calling out a person on their behaviour, with their voices raised with utter disapproval/disappointment.
Six dimensions of anger expression[edit]
Anger expression can take on many more styles than passive or aggressive. Ephrem Fernandez has identified six dimensions of anger expression. They relate to the direction of anger, its locus, reaction, modality, impulsivity, and objective. Coordinates on each of these dimensions can be connected to generate a profile of a person's anger expression style. Among the many profiles that are theoretically possible in this system, are the familiar profile of the person with explosive anger, profile of the person with repressive anger, profile of the passive aggressive person, and the profile of constructive anger expression.[24]
Ethnicity and culture[edit]
Much research has explored whether the emotion of anger is experienced and expressed differently depending on the culture. Matsumoto (2007) conducted a study in which White-American and Asian participants needed to express the emotions from a program called JACFEE (Japanese and Caucasian Facial Expression of Emotion) in order to determine whether Caucasian observers noticed any differences in expression of participants of a different nationality. He found that participants were unable to assign a nationality to people demonstrating expression of anger, i.e. they could not distinguish ethnic-specific expressions of anger.[25] Hatfield, Rapson, and Le (2009) conducted a study that measured ethnic differences in emotional expression using participants from the Philippines, Hawaii, China, and Europe. They concluded that there was a difference between how someone expresses an emotion, especially the emotion of anger in people with different ethnicities, based on frequency, with Europeans showing the lowest frequency of expression of negative emotions.[26]
Other research investigates anger within different ethnic groups who live in the same country. Researchers explored whether Black Americans experience and express greater anger than Whites (Mabry & Kiecolt, 2005). They found that, after controlling for sex and age, Black participants did not feel or express more anger than Whites.[27] Deffenbacher and Swaim (1999) compared the expression of anger in Mexican American people and White non-Hispanic American people. They concluded that White non-Hispanic Americans expressed more verbal aggression than Mexican Americans, although when it came to physical aggression expressions there was no significant difference between both cultures when it came to anger.[28]
Causes[edit]
Some animals make loud sounds, attempt to look physically larger, bare their teeth, and stare.[29] The behaviors associated with anger are designed to warn aggressors to stop their threatening behavior. Rarely does a physical altercation occur without the prior expression of anger by at least one of the participants.[29] Displays of anger can be used as a manipulation strategy for social influence.[30][31]
People feel really angry when they sense that they or someone they care about has been offended, when they are certain about the nature and cause of the angering event, when they are convinced someone else is responsible, and when they feel they can still influence the situation or cope with it.[32] For instance, if a person's car is damaged, they will feel angry if someone else did it (e.g. another driver rear-ended it), but will feel sadness instead if it was caused by situational forces (e.g. a hailstorm) or guilt and shame if they were personally responsible (e.g. they crashed into a wall out of momentary carelessness). Psychotherapist Michael C. Graham defines anger in terms of our expectations and assumptions about the world.[33] Graham states anger almost always results when we are caught up "... expecting the world to be different than it is".[34]
Usually, those who experience anger explain its arousal as a result of "what has happened to them" and in most cases the described provocations occur immediately before the anger experience. Such explanations confirm the illusion that anger has a discrete external cause. The angry person usually finds the cause of their anger in an intentional, personal, and controllable aspect of another person's behavior. This explanation is based on the intuitions of the angry person who experiences a loss in self-monitoring capacity and objective observability as a result of their emotion. Anger can be of multicausal origin, some of which may be remote events, but people rarely find more than one cause for their anger.[7] According to Novaco, "Anger experiences are embedded or nested within an environmental-temporal context. Disturbances that may not have involved anger at the outset leave residues that are not readily recognized but that operate as a lingering backdrop for focal provocations (of anger)."[7] According to Encyclopædia Britannica, an internal infection can cause pain which in turn can activate anger.[35] According to cognitive consistency theory, anger is caused by an inconsistency between a desired, or expected, situation and the actually perceived situation, and triggers responses, such as aggressive behavior, with the expected consequence of reducing the inconsistency.[36][37][38] Sleep deprivation also seems to be a cause of anger.[39]
Cognitive effects[edit]
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Anger causes a reduction in cognitive ability and the accurate processing of external stimuli. Dangers seem smaller, actions seem less risky, ventures seem more likely to succeed, and unfortunate events seem less likely. Angry people are more likely to make risky decisions, and make less realistic risk assessments. In one study, test subjects primed to feel angry felt less likely to have heart disease, and more likely to receive a pay raise, compared to fearful people.[40] This tendency can manifest in retrospective thinking as well: in a 2005 study, angry subjects said they thought the risks of terrorism in the year following 9/11 in retrospect were low, compared to what the fearful and neutral subjects thought.[41]
In inter-group relationships, anger makes people think in more negative and prejudiced terms about outsiders. Anger makes people less trusting, and slower to attribute good qualities to outsiders.[42]
When a group is in conflict with a rival group, it will feel more anger if it is the politically stronger group and less anger when it is the weaker.[43]
Unlike other negative emotions like sadness and fear, angry people are more likely to demonstrate correspondence bias – the tendency to blame a person's behavior more on his nature than on his circumstances. They tend to rely more on stereotypes, and pay less attention to details and more attention to the superficial. In this regard, anger is unlike other "negative" emotions such as sadness and fear, which promote analytical thinking.[44]
An angry person tends to anticipate other events that might cause them anger. They will tend to rate anger-causing events (e.g. being sold a faulty car) as more likely than sad events (e.g. a good friend moving away).[45]
A person who is angry tends to place more blame on another person for their misery. This can create a feedback, as this extra blame can make the angry person angrier still, so they in turn place yet more blame on the other person.
When people are in a certain emotional state, they tend to pay more attention to, or remember, things that are charged with the same emotion; so it is with anger. For instance, if a person is trying to persuade someone that a tax increase is necessary, if the person is currently feeling angry, they would do better to use an argument that elicits anger ("more criminals will escape justice") than, say, an argument that elicits sadness ("there will be fewer welfare benefits for disabled children").[46] Also, unlike other negative emotions, which focus attention on all negative events, anger only focuses attention on anger-causing events.
Anger can make a person more desiring of an object to which his anger is tied. In a 2010 Dutch study, test subjects were primed to feel anger or fear by being shown an image of an angry or fearful face, and then were shown an image of a random object. When subjects were made to feel angry, they expressed more desire to possess that object than subjects who had been primed to feel fear.[47]
Expressive strategies[edit]
As with any emotion, the display of anger can be feigned or exaggerated. Studies by Hochschild and Sutton have shown that the show of anger is likely to be an effective manipulation strategy in order to change and design attitudes. Anger is a distinct strategy of social influence and its use (e.g. belligerent behaviors) as a goal achievement mechanism proves to be a successful strategy.[30][31]
Larissa Tiedens, known for her studies of anger, claimed that expression of feelings would cause a powerful influence not only on the perception of the expresser but also on their power position in the society. She studied the correlation between anger expression and social influence perception. Previous researchers, such as Keating, 1985 have found that people with angry face expression were perceived as powerful and as in a high social position.[51] Similarly, Tiedens et al. have revealed that people who compared scenarios involving an angry and a sad character, attributed a higher social status to the angry character.[52] Tiedens examined in her study whether anger expression promotes status attribution. In other words, whether anger contributes to perceptions or legitimization of others' behaviors. Her findings clearly indicated that participants who were exposed to either an angry or a sad person were inclined to express support for the angry person rather than for a sad one. In addition, it was found that a reason for that decision originates from the fact that the person expressing anger was perceived as an ability owner, and was attributed a certain social status accordingly.[51]
Showing anger during a negotiation may increase the ability of the anger expresser to succeed in negotiation. A study by Tiedens et al. indicated that the anger expressers were perceived as stubborn, dominant and powerful. In addition, it was found that people were inclined to easily give up to those who were perceived by them as powerful and stubborn, rather than soft and submissive.[52] Based on these findings Sinaceur and Tiedens have found that people conceded more to the angry side rather than for the non-angry one.[53]
A question raised by Van Kleef et al. based on these findings was whether expression of emotion influences others, since it is known that people use emotional information to conclude about others' limits and match their demands in negotiation accordingly. Van Kleef et al. wanted to explore whether people give up more easily to an angry opponent or to a happy opponent. Findings revealed that participants tended to be more flexible toward an angry opponent compared with a happy opponent. These results strengthen the argument that participants analyze the opponent's emotion to conclude about their limits and carry out their decisions accordingly.[54]
Coping strategies[edit]
Main article: Anger management
Therapy and behavioral strategies[edit]
According to Leland R. Beaumont, each instance of anger demands making a choice.[55] A person can respond with hostile action, including overt violence, or they can respond with hostile inaction, such as withdrawing or stonewalling. Other options include initiating a dominance contest; harboring resentment; or working to better understand and constructively resolve the issue.
According to Raymond Novaco, there are a multitude of steps that were researched in attempting to deal with this emotion. In order to manage anger the problems involved in the anger should be discussed, Novaco suggests. The situations leading to anger should be explored by the person.[9][56]
Conventional therapies for anger involve restructuring thoughts and beliefs to bring about a reduction in anger. These therapies often come within the schools of CBT (or cognitive behavioral therapy) like modern systems such as REBT (rational emotive behavior therapy). Research shows that people with excessive anger often harbor and act on dysfunctional attributions, assumptions and evaluations in specific situations. It has been shown that with therapy by a trained professional, individuals can bring their anger to more manageable levels.[57] The therapy is followed by the so-called "stress inoculation" in which the clients are taught "relaxation skills to control their arousal and various cognitive controls to exercise on their attention, thoughts, images, and feelings. "Logic defeats anger, because anger, even when it's justified, can quickly become irrational." (American Psychological Association). In other words, although there may be a rational reason to get angry, the frustrated actions of the subject can become irrational. Taking deep breaths is regarded as the first step to calming down. Once the anger has subsided a little, the patient will accept that they are frustrated and move on. Lingering around the source of frustration may bring the rage back.[58]
The skills-deficit model states that poor social skills is what renders a person incapable of expressing anger in an appropriate manner.[59] Social skills training has been found to be an effective method for reducing exaggerated anger by offering alternative coping skills to the angry individual. Research has found that persons who are prepared for aversive events find them less threatening, and excitatory reactions are significantly reduced.[60] In a 1981 study, that used modeling, behavior rehearsal, and videotaped feedback to increase anger control skills, showed increases in anger control among aggressive youth in the study.[61] Research conducted with youthful offenders using a social skills training program (aggression replacement training), found significant reductions in anger, and increases in anger control.[62] Research has also found that antisocial personalities are more likely to learn avoidance tasks when the consequences involved obtaining or losing tangible rewards. Learning among antisocial personalities also occurred better when they were involved with high intensity stimulation.[63] Social learning theory states that positive stimulation was not compatible with hostile or aggressive reactions.[64] Anger research has also studied the effects of reducing anger among adults with antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), with a social skills program approach that used a low fear and high arousal group setting. This research found that low fear messages were less provocative to the ASPD population, and high positive arousal stimulated their ability to concentrate, and subsequently learn new skills for anger reduction.[65]
A new integrative approach to anger treatment has been formulated by Fernandez (2010).[66] Termed CBAT, for cognitive behavioral affective therapy, this treatment goes beyond conventional relaxation and reappraisal by adding cognitive and behavioral techniques and supplementing them with effective techniques to deal with the feeling of anger. The techniques are sequenced contingently in three phases of treatment: prevention, intervention, and postvention. In this way, people can be trained to deal with the onset of anger, its progression, and the residual features of anger.
Medication therapy[edit]
Early 20th century French advertisement for drugs against anger in children. Bibliothèque municipale de Nancy
Systematic reviews and meta-analyses suggest that certain psychiatric medications may be effective in controlling symptoms of anger, hostility, and irritability.[67][68][69][70][71][72] These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants like sertraline, certain anticonvulsant mood stabilizers, antipsychotics like aripiprazole, risperidone, and olanzapine, and benzodiazepines like midazolam, among others.[67][70][69][71][68][72] Another meta-analysis of antidepressants and aggression found no change in aggression in adults and increased aggression in children.[73] Psychostimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamines as well as the atypical antipsychotic risperidone are useful in reducing aggression and oppositionality in children and adolescents with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), antisocial personality disorder, and autism spectrum disorder with moderate to large effect sizes and greater effectiveness than other studied medications.[74][75] Yet another meta-analysis found that methylphenidate slightly reduced irritability while amphetamines increased the risk of irritability several-fold in children with ADHD.[76]
Suppression[edit]
Modern psychologists point out that suppression of anger may have harmful effects. The suppressed anger may find another outlet, such as a physical symptom, or become more extreme.[9][77] John W. Fiero cites Los Angeles riots of 1992 as an example of sudden, explosive release of suppressed anger. The anger was then displaced as violence against those who had nothing to do with the matter. There is also the case of Francine Hughes, who suffered 13 years of domestic abuse. Her suppressed anger drove her to kill her abuser husband. It is claimed that a majority of female victims of domestic violence who suppress their aggressive feelings are unable to recognize, experience, and process negative emotion and this has a destabilising influence on their perception of agency in their relationships.[78] Another example of widespread deflection of anger from its actual cause toward scapegoating, Fiero says, was the blaming of Jews for the economic ills of Germany by the Nazis.[8]
Some psychologists criticized the catharsis theory of aggression, which suggests that releasing pent-up anger reduces aggression.[79] On the other hand, there are experts who maintain that suppression does not eliminate anger since it merely forbids the expression of anger and this is also the case for repression, which merely hides anger from awareness.[80] There are also studies that link suppressed anger and medical conditions such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, and cancer.[81][82] Suppressed or repressed anger is found to cause irritable bowel syndrome, eating disorders, and depression among women.[83][82] Suppression is also referred to as a form of "self-silencing", which is described as a cognitive activity wherein an individual monitors the self and eliminate thoughts and feelings that are perceived to be dangerous to relationships.[82] Anger suppression is also associated with higher rates of suicide.[82]
Dual threshold model[edit]
Anger expression might have negative outcomes for individuals and organizations as well, such as decrease of productivity.[84] and increase of job stress,[85] It could also have positive outcomes, such as increased work motivation, improved relationships and increased mutual understanding (for ex. Tiedens, 2000).[86] A Dual Threshold Model of Anger in organizations by Geddes and Callister, (2007) provides an explanation on the valence of anger expression outcomes. The model suggests that organizational norms establish emotion thresholds that may be crossed when employees feel anger. The first "expression threshold" is crossed when an organizational member conveys felt anger to individuals at work who are associated with or able to address the anger-provoking situation. The second "impropriety threshold" is crossed if or when organizational members go too far while expressing anger such that observers and other company personnel find their actions socially and/or culturally inappropriate.
The higher probability of negative outcomes from workplace anger likely will occur in either of two situations. The first is when organizational members suppress rather than express their anger—that is, they fail to cross the "expression threshold". In this instance personnel who might be able to address or resolve the anger-provoking condition or event remain unaware of the problem, allowing it to continue, along with the affected individual's anger. The second is when organizational members cross both thresholds—"double cross"— displaying anger that is perceived as deviant. In such cases the angry person is seen as the problem—increasing chances of organizational sanctions against him or her while diverting attention away from the initial anger-provoking incident. In contrast, a higher probability of positive outcomes from workplace anger expression likely will occur when one's expressed anger stays in the space between the expression and impropriety thresholds. Here, one expresses anger in a way fellow organizational members find acceptable, prompting exchanges and discussions that may help resolve concerns to the satisfaction of all parties involved. This space between the thresholds varies among different organizations and also can be changed in organization itself: when the change is directed to support anger displays; the space between the thresholds will be expanded and when the change is directed to suppressing such displays; the space will be reduced.[87][88]
Physiology[edit]
An angry exchange between two people, as evidenced by their body language and facial expressions. To hear the angry exchange, listen to the audio below.
Audio file of an angry exchange at a protest.
Neuroscience has shown that emotions are generated by multiple structures in the brain. The rapid, minimal, and evaluative processing of the emotional significance of the sensory data is done when the data passes through the amygdala in its travel from the sensory organs along certain neural pathways towards the limbic forebrain. Emotion caused by discrimination of stimulus features, thoughts, or memories occurs when its information is relayed from the thalamus to the neocortex.[35] Based on some statistical analysis, some scholars have suggested that the tendency for anger may be genetic. Distinguishing between genetic and environmental factors requires further research and actual measurement of specific genes and environments.[89][90]
In neuroimaging studies of anger, the most consistently activated region of the brain was the lateral orbitofrontal cortex.[91] This region is associated with approach motivation and positive affective processes.[92]
The external expression of anger can be found in physiological responses, facial expressions, body language, and at times in public acts of aggression.[6] The rib cage tenses and breathing through the nose becomes faster, deeper, and irregular.[93] Anger activates the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis.[94] The catecholamine activation is more strongly norepinephrine than epinephrine.[7] Heart rate and blood pressure increase. Blood flows to the hands. Perspiration increases (particularly when the anger is intense).[95] The face flushes. The nostrils flare. The jaw tenses. The brow muscles move inward and downward, fixing a hard stare on the target. The arms are raised and a squared-off stance is adopted. The body is mobilized for immediate action, often manifesting as a subjective sense of strength, self-assurance, and potency. This may encourage the impulse to strike out.[7]
Measuring anger[edit]
The Gallup World Poll[edit]
Every year, Gallup asks people in over 140 countries, "did you experience anger during a lot of the day yesterday?" In 2021, Gallup found that 23% of adults experienced a lot of anger, which is up from 18% in 2014.[96] The countries that experienced the most anger were Lebanon, Turkey, Armenia, Iraq, and Afghanistan; the countries that experience the least anger were Finland, Mauritius, Estonia, Portugal, and the Netherlands.[97]
Self-reports of Psychological Anger[edit]
The most common way to measure anger has been through the use of self-report measures. It is currently thought there are just under 50 measures of psychological anger.[98]
The Spielberger State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory[99] and the Novaco Anger Scale and Provocation Inventory[100] are widely recognized and frequently used self-report measures for assessing anger, focusing on various aspects of anger expression including outward, inward, and controlled expressions. Additionally, various anger scales draw on different perspectives, such as cognitive processes of anger rumination,[101] anger as behavioral and cognitive responses to avoidance, assertion, and social support,[102] cognitive and emotional aspects of irritability,[103] functional and dysfunctional responses and goal-oriented behavior in response to anger,[104] experiences of anger,[105] and positive beliefs about anger.[106] Some approaches even consider anger as being reciprocally related to frustration and hostility.[107][108][109]
In 2023, a study[98] revealed that the relationships between 46 subscales of publicly available self-report measures of anger suggest five primary factors. These factors suggest a model of five key dimensions to anger; anger-arousal, anger-rumination, frustration-discomfort, anger-regulation, and socially constituted anger.[98] The proposed five-factor model is based on various theoretical contexts and provides a useful framework for examining the distinct domains of anger.[98]
Anger-arousal, which acknowledges the commonly observed existence of anger expressions in everyday life.[110] This domain highlights the tendency for frequent and intense anger experiences and offers a means to examine how anger can represent an individual's stable and predictable responses to different situations.[98]
Anger-rumination, which centers around the cognitive and emotional processes that occur within an individual regarding anger and the cognitive appraisals and action tendencies in response to perceived wrong-doings.[101] This domain offers an opportunity to examine anger within the broader context of rumination and explore how metacognitive beliefs about emotional stress, like anger, can lead to behavioral and emotional dysregulation, such as depression.[98]
Frustration-discomfort, which reflects measures that are tailored to Rational-Emotive Behavior Theory,[111] which explore absolutistic and demand-related beliefs related to entitlement, achievement, and alleviating discomfort.[112] This domain provides an opportunity to examine how our cognitive beliefs give rise to expressions of anger.[98]
Anger-regulation, which reflects cognitive strategies or processes that modify the expression and experience of anger.[113] This domain provides a chance to examine coping strategies, such as avoidance, seeking distraction, and downplaying, which are common ways of managing stressful situations related to anger.[104]
Socially constituted anger, which takes a socially constructed perspective on anger, and views anger as operating within social dominance and conflict dynamics.[114][115] This approach recognizes that the recognition of anger in others can reveal their possible motivations and highlight potential disagreements between individuals' values; particularly in terms of within the protection and enhancement of the self, social norms, and the extent to which anger is constructed via joint understandings of the world.[98]
The study[98] suggests a number of existing subscales that can be used to measure these five domains of anger.
Philosophical perspectives[edit]
The Fury of Athamas by John Flaxman (1755–1826).
Ancient history[edit]
Ancient Greek philosophers, describing and commenting on the uncontrolled anger, particularly toward slaves, in their society generally showed a hostile attitude towards anger. Galen and Seneca regarded anger as a kind of madness. They all rejected the spontaneous, uncontrolled fits of anger and agreed on both the possibility and value of controlling anger. There were disagreements regarding the value of anger. For Seneca, anger was "worthless even for war". Seneca believed that the disciplined Roman army was regularly able to beat the Germans, who were known for their fury. He argued that "... in sporting contests, it is a mistake to become angry".[9]
Aristotle on the other hand, ascribed some value to anger that has arisen from perceived injustice because it is useful for preventing injustice.[9][116] Furthermore, the opposite of anger is a kind of insensibility, Aristotle stated.[9] The difference in people's temperaments was generally viewed as a result of the different mix of qualities or humors people contained. Seneca held that "red-haired and red-faced people are hot-tempered because of excessive hot and dry humors".[9] Ancient philosophers rarely refer to women's anger at all, according to Simon Kemp and K.T. Strongman perhaps because their works were not intended for women. Some of them that discuss it, such as Seneca, considered women to be more prone to anger than men.[9]
Control methods[edit]
Wikisource has original text related to this article:
Of Anger
Seneca addresses the question of mastering anger in three parts: 1. how to avoid becoming angry in the first place 2. how to cease being angry and 3. how to deal with anger in others.[9] Seneca suggests, to avoid becoming angry in the first place, that the many faults of anger should be repeatedly remembered. One should avoid being too busy or dealing with anger-provoking people. Unnecessary hunger or thirst should be avoided and soothing music be listened to.[9] To cease being angry, Seneca suggests one to check speech and impulses and be aware of particular sources of personal irritation. In dealing with other people, one should not be too inquisitive: It is not always soothing to hear and see everything. When someone appears to slight you, you should be at first reluctant to believe this, and should wait to hear the full story. You should also put yourself in the place of the other person, trying to understand his motives and any extenuating factors, such as age or illness."[9]
Seneca further advises daily self-inquisition about one's bad habit.[9] To deal with anger in others, Seneca suggests that the best reaction is to keep calm. A certain kind of deception, Seneca says, is necessary in dealing with angry people.[9]
Galen repeats Seneca's points but adds a new one: finding a guide and teacher can help the person in controlling their passions. Galen also gives some hints for finding a good teacher.[9] Both Seneca and Galen (and later philosophers) agree that the process of controlling anger should start in childhood on grounds of malleability. Seneca warns that this education should not blunt the spirit of the children nor should they be humiliated or treated severely. At the same time, they should not be pampered. Children, Seneca says, should learn not to beat their playmates and not to become angry with them. Seneca also advises that children's requests should not be granted when they are angry.[9]
Post-classical history[edit]
See also: The four humours
During the period of the Roman Empire and the Middle Ages, philosophers elaborated on the existing conception of anger, many of whom did not make major contributions to the concept. For example, many medieval philosophers such as Ibn Sina (Avicenna), Roger Bacon and Thomas Aquinas agreed with ancient philosophers that animals cannot become angry.[9] On the other hand, al-Ghazali (Algazel), who often disagreed with Aristotle and Ibn Sina on many issues, argued that animals do possess anger as one of the three "powers" in their heart, the other two being appetite and impulse. He also argued that animal will is "conditioned by anger and appetite" in contrast to human will which is "conditioned by the intellect".[117] A common medieval belief was that those prone to anger had an excess of yellow bile or choler (hence the word "choleric").[9] This belief was related to Seneca's belief that "red-haired and red-faced people are hot-tempered because of excessive hot and dry humors".
By gender[edit]
Wrath was sinful because of the social problems it caused, sometimes even homicide. It served to ignore those who are present, contradicts those who are absent, produces insults, and responds harshly to insults that are received.[118] Aristotle felt that anger or wrath was a natural outburst of self-defense in situations where people felt they had been wronged. Aquinas felt that if anger was justified, it was not a sin. For example, "He that is angry without cause, shall be in danger; but he that is angry with cause, shall not be in danger: for without anger, teaching will be useless, judgments unstable, crimes unchecked. Therefore to be angry is not always an evil."[119]
The concept of wrath contributed to a definition of gender and power. Many medieval authors in 1200 agreed the differences between men and women were based on complexion, shape, and disposition. Complexion involved the balance of the four fundamental qualities of heat, coldness, moistness, and dryness. When various combinations of these qualities are made they define groups of certain people as well as individuals. Hippocrates, Aristotle, and Galen all agreed on that, in terms of biology and sexual differentiation, heat was the most important of the qualities because it determined shape and disposition. Disposition included a balance of the previous four qualities, the four elements and the four humors. For example, the element of fire shared the qualities of heat and dryness: fire dominated in yellow bile or choler, meaning a choleric person was more or hot and dry than others. Hot and dry individuals were active, dominant, and aggressive. The opposite was true with the element of water. Water, is cold and moist, related closely to phlegm: people with more phlegmatic personalities were passive and submissive. While these trait clusters varied from individual to individual most authors in the Middle Ages assumed certain clusters of traits characterized men more than women and vice versa.[120]
Women[edit]
Scholars posted that females were seen by authors in the Middle Ages to be more phlegmatic (cold and wet) than males, meaning females were more sedentary and passive than males.[120] Women's passive nature appeared "natural" due to their lack of power when compared to men. Aristotle identified traits he believed women shared: female, feminine, passive, focused on matter, inactive, and inferior. Thus medieval women were supposed to act submissively toward men and relinquish control to their husbands.[120] Hildegard of Bingen believed women were fully capable of anger. While most women were phlegmatic, individual women under certain circumstances could also be choleric.
Men[edit]
Medieval scholars believed most men were choleric, or hot and dry. Thus they were dominant and aggressive. (Barton) Aristotle also identified characteristics of men: male, masculine, active, focused on form, potent, outstanding, and superior. Men were aware of the power they held. Given their choleric "nature", men exhibited hot temperatures and were quick to anger.[120] Peter of Albano once said, "The male's spirit, is lively, given to violent impulse; [it is] slow getting angry and slower being calmed." Medieval ideas of gender assumed men were more rational than women. Masculinity involved a wide range of possible behaviors, and men were not angry all the time. Every man's humoral balance was different, some men were strong, others weak, also some more prone to wrath than others.[120] There are those who view anger as a manly act. For instance, David Brakke maintained:because anger motivated a man to action in righting wrongs to himself and others, because its opposite appeared to be passivity in the face of challenges from other males, because – to put it simply – it raised the body's temperature, anger appeared to be a characteristic of masculinity, a sign that a man was indeed a manly man.[121]
Control methods[edit]
Maimonides considered being given to uncontrollable passions as a kind of illness. Like Galen, Maimonides suggested seeking out a philosopher for curing this illness just as one seeks out a physician for curing bodily illnesses. Roger Bacon elaborates Seneca's advices. Many medieval writers discuss at length the evils of anger and the virtues of temperance. In a discussion of confession, John Mirk, an English 14th-century Augustinian writer, tells priests how to advise the penitent by considering the spiritual and social consequences of anger:[9]
Agaynes wraþþe hys helpe schal be,
Ʒef he haue grace in herte to se
How aungelus, when he ys wroth,
From hym faste flen and goth,
And fendes faste to hym renneth,
And wyþ fuyre of helle hys herte breneth,
And maketh hym so hote & hegh,
Þat no mon may byde hym negh.[122]
'Against wrath his help shall be,
if he has grace in heart to see,
how angels, should his anger rise,
flee fast from him and go
and demons run to him in haste;
hell's fury burns his heart
and makes him so hot and high
that none may stand him nigh.
In The Canon of Medicine, Ibn Sina (Avicenna) modified the theory of temperaments and argued that anger heralded the transition of melancholia to mania, and explained that humidity inside the head can contribute to such mood disorders.[123]
On the other hand, Ahmed ibn Sahl al-Balkhi classified anger (along with aggression) as a type of neurosis,[124] while al-Ghazali argued that anger takes form in rage, indignation and revenge, and that "the powers of the soul become balanced if it keeps anger under control".[125]
Modern perspectives[edit]
Immanuel Kant rejects revenge as vicious. Regarding the latter, David Hume argues that because "anger and hatred are passions inherent in our very frame and constitution, the lack of them is sometimes evidence of weakness and imbecility".[10] Martha Nussbaum has also agreed that even "great injustice" is no "excuse for childish and undisciplined behavior".[126] Two main differences between the modern understanding and ancient understanding of anger can be detected, Kemp and Strongman state: one is that early philosophers were not concerned with possible harmful effects of the suppression of anger; the other is that, recently, studies of anger take the issue of gender differences into account.[9] Soraya Chemaly has in contrast argued that anger is "a critically useful and positive emotion" which "warns us, as humans, that something is wrong and needs to change" when "being threatened with indignity, physical harm, humiliation and unfairness" and therefore "a powerful force for political good".[127] Furthermore, she argues that women and minorities are not allowed to be angry to the same extent as white men.[127] In a similar vein, Rebecca Traister has argued that holding back anger has been an impediment to the progress of women's rights.[128]
The American psychologist Albert Ellis has suggested that anger, rage, and fury partly have roots in the philosophical meanings and assumptions through which human beings interpret transgression.[111] According to Ellis, these emotions are often associated and related to the leaning humans have to absolutistically depreciating and damning other peoples' humanity when their personal rules and domain are transgressed.
Religious perspectives[edit]
Judaism[edit]
Main article: Anger in Judaism
In Judaism, anger is a negative trait. In the Book of Genesis, Jacob condemned the anger that had arisen in his sons Simon and Levi: "Cursed be their anger, for it was fierce; and their wrath, for it was cruel."[129]
Restraining oneself from anger is seen as noble and desirable, as Ethics of the Fathers states:
Ben Zoma said:
Who is strong? He who subdues his evil inclination, as it is stated,
"He who is slow to anger is better than a strong man, and he who masters his passions is better than one who conquers a city" (Proverbs 16:32).[130]
Maimonides rules that one who becomes angry is as though that person had worshipped idols.[131] Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi explains that the parallel between anger and idol worship is that by becoming angry, one shows a disregard of Divine Providence – whatever had caused the anger was ultimately ordained from Above – and that through coming to anger one thereby denies the hand of God in one's life.[132]
In its section dealing with ethical traits a person should adopt, the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch states: "Anger is also a very evil trait and it should be avoided at all costs. You should train yourself not to become angry even if you have a good reason to be angry."[133]
In modern writing s, Rabbi Harold Kushner finds no grounds for anger toward God because "our misfortunes are none of His doing".[134] In contrast to Kushner's reading of the Bible, David Blumenthal finds an "abusing God" whose "sometimes evil" actions evoke vigorous protest, but without severing the protester's relationship with God.[135]
Christianity[edit]
Both Catholic and Protestant writers have addressed anger in different perspectives.
Catholic[edit]
The Seven Deadly Sins and the Four Last Things, by Hieronymus Bosch (1485). "Wrath" is depicted at the bottom in a series of circular images. Below the image is the Latin inscription Cave Cave Deus Videt ("Beware, Beware, God is Watching").
Angel with Temperance and Humility virtues versus Devil with Rage and Wrath sins. A fresco from the 1717 Saint Nicholas Orthodox church in Cukovets, Pernik Province, Bulgaria
Wrath is one of the Seven Deadly Sins in Catholicism; and yet the Catechism of the Catholic Church states (canons 1772 and 1773) that anger is among the passions, and that "in the passions, as movements of the sensitive appetite, there is neither good nor evil". The neutral act of anger becomes the sin of wrath when it's directed against an innocent person, when it's unduly unbending or long-lasting, or when it desires excessive punishment. "If anger reaches the point of a deliberate desire to kill or seriously wound a neighbor, it is gravely against charity; it is a mortal sin" (CCC 2302). Hatred is the sin of desiring that someone else may suffer misfortune or evil, and is a mortal sin when one desires grave harm (CCC 2302-03).
Medieval Christianity vigorously denounced wrath as one of the seven cardinal, or deadly sins, but some Christian writers at times regarded the anger caused by injustice as having some value.[8][9] Saint Basil viewed anger as a "reprehensible temporary madness".[8] Joseph F. Delany in the Catholic Encyclopedia (1914) defines anger as "the desire of vengeance" and states that a reasonable vengeance and passion is ethical and praiseworthy. Vengeance is sinful when it exceeds its limits in which case it becomes opposed to justice and charity. For example, "vengeance upon one who has not deserved it, or to a greater extent than it has been deserved, or in conflict with the dispositions of law, or from an improper motive" are all sinful. An unduly vehement vengeance is considered a venial sin unless it seriously goes counter to the love of God or of one's neighbor.[136]
A more positive view of anger is espoused by Roman Catholic pastoral theologian Henri J.M. Nouwen. Father Nouwen points to the spiritual benefits in anger toward God as found in both the Old Testament and New Testament of the Bible. In the Bible, says Father Nouwen, "it is clear that only by expressing our anger and hatred directly to God will we come to know the fullness of both his love and our freedom".[137]
Georges Bernanos illustrates Nouwen's position in his novel The Diary of a Country Priest. The countess gave birth to the son she had long wanted, but the child died. She was fiercely angry. When the priest called, the countess vented her anger toward her daughter and husband, then at the priest who responded gently, "open your heart to [God]". The countess rejoined, "I've ceased to bother about God. When you've forced me to admit that I hate Him, will you be any better off?" The priest continued, "you no longer hate Him. Hate is indifference and contempt. Now at last you're face to face with Him ... Shake your fist at Him, spit in His face, scourge Him." The countess did what the priest counseled. By confessing her hate, she was enabled to say, "all's well".[138]
Protestant[edit]
Saul attacks David (who had been playing music to help Saul feel better), 1860 woodcut by Julius Schnorr von Karolsfeld, a Lutheran
Everyone experiences anger, Andrew D. Lester observes, and furthermore anger can serve as "a spiritual friend, a spiritual guide, and a spiritual ally". Denying and suppressing anger is contrary to St. Paul's admonition in his Epistle to the Ephesians 4:26.[139] When anger toward God is denied and suppressed, it interferes with an individual's relation with God. Expressing one's anger toward God can deepen the relationship.[140] C. FitzSimons Allison holds that "we worship God by expressing our honest anger at him".[141]
Biblical scholar Leonard Pine concludes from his studies in the Book of Habakkuk that "far from being a sin, proper remonstration with God is the activity of a healthy faith relationship with Him".[142] Other biblical examples of anger toward God include the following:[143]
Moses was angry with God for mistreating his people: "Lord, why have you mistreated [lit. done evil to] this people?" (Book of Exodus 5:22).
Naomi was angry with God after the death of her husband and two sons: "The Almighty has dealt bitterly with me. The Almighty has brought calamity upon me" (Book of Ruth 1:20–21 abr).
Elijah was angry with God after the son of the widow died: "O Lord my God, have you brought calamity even upon the widow with whom I am staying, by killing her son?" (1 Kings 17:20).
Job was angry with God: "You have turned cruel to me; with the might of your hand you persecute me" (Book of Job 30:21).
Jeremiah was angry with God for deceiving his people: "Ah, Lord God, how utterly you have deceived this people and Jerusalem" (Book of Jeremiah 4:10).
Hinduism[edit]
In Hinduism, anger is equated with sorrow as a form of unrequited desire. The objects of anger are perceived as a hindrance to the gratification of the desires of the angry person.[144] Alternatively if one thinks one is superior, the result is grief. Anger is considered to be packed with more evil power than desire.[145] In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna regards greed, anger, and lust as signs of ignorance that lead to perpetual bondage. As for the agitations of the bickering mind, they are divided into two divisions. The first is called avirodha-prīti, or unrestricted attachment, and the other is called virodha-yukta-krodha, anger arising from frustration. Adherence to the philosophy of the Māyāvādīs, belief in the fruitive results of the karma-vādīs, and belief in plans based on materialistic desires are called avirodha-prīti.[146]
Jñānīs, karmīs and materialistic planmakers generally attract the attention of conditioned souls, but when the materialists cannot fulfill their plans and when their devices are frustrated, they become angry. Frustration of material desires produces anger.[147]
Buddhism[edit]
Anger is defined in Buddhism as: "being unable to bear the object, or the intention to cause harm to the object". Anger is seen as aversion with a stronger exaggeration, and is listed as one of the five hindrances. Buddhist monks, such as Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibetans in exile, sometimes get angry.[148] Most often a spiritual person is aware of the emotion and the way it can be handled. Thus, in response to the question: "Is any anger acceptable in Buddhism?' the Dalai Lama answered:[148] Buddhism in general teaches that anger is a destructive emotion and although anger might have some positive effects in terms of survival or moral outrage, I do not accept that anger of any kind as [sic] a virtuous emotion nor aggression as constructive behavior. The Gautama Buddha [sic] has taught that there are three basic kleshas at the root of samsara (bondage, illusion) and the vicious cycle of rebirth. These are greed, hatred, and delusion—also translatable as attachment, anger, and ignorance. They bring us confusion and misery rather than peace, happiness, and fulfillment. It is in our own self-interest to purify and transform them.
Buddhist scholar and author Geshe Kelsang Gyatso has also explained Buddha's teaching on the spiritual imperative to identify anger and overcome it by transforming difficulties:[149]
When things go wrong in our life and we encounter difficult situations, we tend to regard the situation itself as our problem, but in reality whatever problems we experience come from the side of the mind. If we responded to difficult situations with a positive or peaceful mind they would not be problems for us. Eventually, we might even regard them as challenges or opportunities for growth and development. Problems arise only if we respond to difficulties with a negative state of mind. Therefore if we want to be free from problems, we must transform our mind.
The Buddha himself on anger:[150]
An angry person is ugly & sleeps poorly. Gaining a profit, he turns it into a loss, having done damage with word & deed. A person overwhelmed with anger destroys his wealth. Maddened with anger, he destroys his status. Relatives, friends, & colleagues avoid him. Anger brings loss. Anger inflames the mind. He doesn't realize that his danger is born from within. An angry person doesn't know his own benefit. An angry person doesn't see the Dharma. A man conquered by anger is in a mass of darkness. He takes pleasure in bad deeds as if they were good, but later, when his anger is gone, he suffers as if burned with fire. He is spoiled, blotted out, like fire enveloped in smoke. When anger spreads, when a man becomes angry, he has no shame, no fear of evil, is not respectful in speech. For a person overcome with anger, nothing gives light.
Islam[edit]
A verse in the third surah of the Quran instructs people to restrain their anger.[151]
Anger (Arabic: غضب, ghadab) in Islam is considered to be instigated by Satan (Shaitan).[152] Factors stated to lead to anger include selfishness, arrogance and excessive ambition.[153] Islamic teachings also state that anger hinders the faith (iman) of a person.[154] The Quran attributes anger to prophets and believers as well as Muhammad's enemies. It mentions the anger of Moses (Musa) against his people for worshiping a golden calf and at the moment when Moses strikes an Egyptian for fighting against an Israelite.[155] The anger of Jonah (Yunus) is also mentioned in the Quran, which led to his departure from the people of Nineveh and his eventual realization of his error and his repentance.[156] The removal of anger from the hearts of believers by God (Arabic: [[Allah|الله]] Allāh) after the fighting against Muhammad's enemies is over.[157][158] In general, suppression of anger (Arabic: کاظم, kazm) is deemed a praiseworthy quality in the hadis.[158][159][160] Ibn Abdil Barr, the Andalusian Maliki jurist explains that controlling anger is the door way for restraining other blameworthy traits ego and envy, since these two are less powerful than anger. The hadis state various ways to diminish, prevent and control anger. One of these methods is to perform a ritual ablution, a different narration states that the angry person should lie down and other narrations instruct the angry person to invoke God and seek refuge from the Devil, by reciting I take refuge with Allah/God from the accursed Devil.
It has also been stated by the Imam Ali, the "Commander of the faithful" and the son-in-law of prophet Muhammad that "A moment of patience in a moment of anger saves a thousand moments of regret." As well as "Anger begins with madness, and ends in regret."[153]
Divine retribution[edit]
The Great Day of His Wrath, by John Martin (1789–1854).
In many religions, anger is frequently attributed to God or gods. Primitive people held that gods were subject to anger and revenge in anthropomorphic fashion.[161] The Hebrew Bible says that opposition to God's will results in God's anger.[161] Reform rabbi Kaufmann Kohler explains:[129]
God is not an intellectual abstraction, nor is He conceived as a being indifferent to the doings of man; and His pure and lofty nature resents most energetically anything wrong and impure in the moral world: "O Lord, my God, mine Holy One ... Thou art of eyes too pure to behold evil, and canst not look on iniquity." Christians believe in God's anger at the sight of evil. This anger is not inconsistent with God's love, as demonstrated in the Gospel where the righteous indignation of Christ is shown in the Cleansing of the Temple.
See also[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Anger.
Wikiversity has learning resources about Resolving Anger
Wikiquote has quotations related to Anger.
Look up anger in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.
Angry Cognitions Scale
Fear
Indignation
Moral emotions
Outrage (emotion)
Rage (emotion)
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^ Kolko, D.J., Dorsett, P.G., and Milan, M. (1981). A total assessment approach to the evaluation of social skills training: The effectiveness of an anger control program for adolescent psychiatric patients. Behavioral Assessment, 3, 383–402.
^ Glick, B.; Goldstein, A.P. (1987). "Aggression replacement training". Journal of Counseling and Development. 65 (7): 356–361. doi:10.1002/j.1556-6676.1987.tb00730.x.
^ Reid, D., Dorr, J., Walker & J Bonner (eds.), New York: Norton (1971).
^ Bandura, A. Aggression: A social learning analysis. Englewood Cliffs, N.J.: Prentice-Hall, 1973.
^ Sanderlin, T.K., and Cellini, H.R., "Anger Management Intervention with Offender Populations". Offender Programs Report, Vol. 2. No. 4, November/December 1998.
^ "Toward an Integrative Psychotherapy for Maladaptive Anger", International Handbook of Anger.
^ a b Bak M, Weltens I, Bervoets C, De Fruyt J, Samochowiec J, Fiorillo A, Sampogna G, Bienkowski P, Preuss WU, Misiak B, Frydecka D, Samochowiec A, Bak E, Drukker M, Dom G (April 2019). "The pharmacological management of agitated and aggressive behaviour: A systematic review and meta-analysis". Eur Psychiatry. 57: 78–100. doi:10.1016/j.eurpsy.2019.01.014. hdl:10067/1566660151162165141. PMID 30721802. S2CID 73416580.
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^ a b Salazar de Pablo G, Jordá CP, Vaquerizo-Serrano J, Moreno C, Cabras A, Arango C, Hernández P, Veenstra-VanderWeele J, Simonoff E, Fusar-Poli P, Santosh P, Cortese S, Parellada M (April 2022). "Systematic Review and Meta-analysis: Efficacy of Pharmacological Interventions for Irritability and Emotional Dysregulation in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Predictors of Response". J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 62 (2): 151–168. doi:10.1016/j.jaac.2022.03.033. PMID 35470032. S2CID 248371519.
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^ "Anger". Gale Encyclopedia of Psychology, 2nd ed. Gale Group, 2001.
^ Stein, Abby (2014). Cupid's Knife: Women's Anger and Agency in Violent Relationships. New York: Routledge. p. 1. ISBN 978-0-415-52786-6.
^ Evidence against catharsis theory:
Burkeman (2006). "Anger Management". The Guardian. Archived from the original on 2016-04-24. Retrieved 2016-12-13.
Green; et al. (1975). "The facilitation of aggression by aggression: Evidence against the catharsis hypothesis". Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. 31 (4): 721–726. CiteSeerX 10.1.1.366.6962. doi:10.1037/0022-3514.31.4.721. PMID 1159613.
Evidence for: Murray, Joan; Feshbach, Seymour (1978). "Let's not throw the baby out with the bathwater: The catharsis hypothesis revisited". Journal of Personality. 46 (3): 462–473. doi:10.1111/j.1467-6494.1978.tb01012.x.
^ Davies, Janet; Janosik, Ellen (1991). Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing: A Caring Approach. Boston, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning. p. 107. ISBN 978-0-86720-442-1.
^ Kassinove, Howard (2013). Anger Disorders: Definition, Diagnosis, And Treatment. Oxon: Taylor & Francis. p. 1. ISBN 978-1-56032-352-5.
^ a b c d Worell, Judith (2002). Encyclopedia of Women and Gender, Two-Volume Set: Sex Similarities and Differences and the Impact of Society on Gender. San Diego, CA: Academic Press. p. 144. ISBN 978-0-12-227245-5.
^ Bowers, Hannah; Wroe, Abigail (2016). "Beliefs about emotions mediate the relationship between emotional suppression and quality of life in irritable bowel syndrome". Journal of Mental Health. 25 (2): 154–158. doi:10.3109/09638237.2015.1101414. PMID 26635302. S2CID 24698200 – via Taylor and Francis Online.
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^ Xiaoling Wang, Ranak Trivedi, Frank Treiber, and Harold Snieder, Genetic and Environmental Influences on Anger Expression, John Henryism, and Stressful Life Events: The Georgia Cardiovascular Twin Study, Psychosomatic Medicine 67:16–23 (2005)
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^ International Handbook of Anger. Chapt 4: Constructing a Neurology of Anger. Michael Potegal and Gerhard Stemmler. 2010
^ International Handbook of Anger. Chapt 17. Michael Potegal and Gerhard Stemmler. 2010
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^ Paul Ekman, Emotions Revealed: Recognizing Faces and Feelings to Improve Communication, Holt Paperbacks, ISBN 0-8050-7516-X, 2004, p. 63
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^ Spielberger, Charles (2021). "State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory". PsycTESTS Dataset. doi:10.1037/t29496-000. S2CID 243875065. Retrieved 2023-04-22.
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^ a b Sukhodolsky, Denis G.; Golub, Arthur; Cromwell, Erin N. (2001-10-01). "Development and validation of the anger rumination scale". Personality and Individual Differences. 31 (5): 689–700. doi:10.1016/S0191-8869(00)00171-9. ISSN 0191-8869.
^ Linden, Wolfgang; Hogan, Brenda E.; Rutledge, Thomas; Chawla, Anuradha; Lenz, Joseph W.; Leung, Debbie (March 2003). "There is more to anger coping than "in" or "out"". Emotion. 3 (1): 12–29. doi:10.1037/1528-3542.3.1.12. ISSN 1931-1516. PMID 12899314.
^ Craig, Kevin J.; Hietanen, Heidi; Markova, Ivana S.; Berrios, German E. (2008-06-30). "The Irritability Questionnaire: A new scale for the measurement of irritability". Psychiatry Research. 159 (3): 367–375. doi:10.1016/j.psychres.2007.03.002. ISSN 0165-1781. PMID 18374422. S2CID 8193504.
^ a b Kubiak, Thomas; Wiedig-Allison, Monika; Zgoriecki, Sandra; Weber, Hannelore (2011-01-01). "Habitual Goals and Strategies in Anger Regulation". Journal of Individual Differences. 32 (1): 1–13. doi:10.1027/1614-0001/a000030. ISSN 1614-0001. Archived from the original on 2023-04-30. Retrieved 2023-04-22.
^ Sharkin, Bruce S.; Gelso, Charles J. (1991). "Anger Discomfort Scale". PsycTESTS Dataset. doi:10.1037/t06800-000. Retrieved 2023-04-22.
^ Moeller, Stine Bjerrum (July 2016). "The Metacognitive Anger Processing (MAP) Scale: Preliminary Testing". Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy. 44 (4): 504–509. doi:10.1017/S1352465815000272. ISSN 1352-4658. PMID 26109253. S2CID 22886296. Archived from the original on 2023-04-22. Retrieved 2023-04-22.
^ Birkley, Erica L.; Eckhardt, Christopher I. (2015-04-01). "Anger, hostility, internalizing negative emotions, and intimate partner violence perpetration: A meta-analytic review". Clinical Psychology Review. 37: 40–56. doi:10.1016/j.cpr.2015.01.002. ISSN 0272-7358. PMC 4385442. PMID 25752947.
^ Pawliczek, Christina M.; Derntl, Birgit; Kellermann, Thilo; Gur, Ruben C.; Schneider, Frank; Habel, Ute (2013-10-18). "Anger under Control: Neural Correlates of Frustration as a Function of Trait Aggression". PLOS ONE. 8 (10): e78503. Bibcode:2013PLoSO...878503P. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0078503. ISSN 1932-6203. PMC 3799631. PMID 24205247.
^ Trip, Simona; Bora, Carmen Hortensia; Roseanu, Gabriel; McMahon, James (2021-06-01). "Anger, Frustration Intolerance, Global Evaluation of Human Worth and Externalizing Behaviors in Preadolescence". Journal of Rational-Emotive & Cognitive-Behavior Therapy. 39 (2): 238–255. doi:10.1007/s10942-020-00369-w. ISSN 1573-6563. S2CID 254699356.
^ Beames, Joanne R.; O’Dean, Siobhan M.; Grisham, Jessica R.; Moulds, Michelle L.; Denson, Thomas F. (May 2019). "Anger regulation in interpersonal contexts: Anger experience, aggressive behavior, and cardiovascular reactivity". Journal of Social and Personal Relationships. 36 (5): 1441–1458. doi:10.1177/0265407518819295. ISSN 0265-4075. S2CID 150663606.
^ a b Ellis, Albert (2001). Overcoming Destructive Beliefs, Feelings, and Behaviors: New Directions for Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy. Prometheus Books.
^ Harrington, Neil (September 2005). "The Frustration Discomfort Scale: development and psychometric properties". Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy. 12 (5): 374–387. doi:10.1002/cpp.465. ISSN 1063-3995. Archived from the original on 2023-04-22. Retrieved 2023-04-22.
^ Gilam, Gadi; Hendler, Talma (2017), Wöhr, Markus; Krach, Sören (eds.), "Deconstructing Anger in the Human Brain", Social Behavior from Rodents to Humans: Neural Foundations and Clinical Implications, Cham: Springer International Publishing, vol. 30, pp. 257–273, doi:10.1007/7854_2015_408, ISBN 978-3-319-47429-8, PMID 26695163, retrieved 2023-04-22
^ Averill, James R. (1983). "Studies on anger and aggression: Implications for theories of emotion". American Psychologist. 38 (11): 1145–1160. doi:10.1037/0003-066X.38.11.1145. ISSN 1935-990X. PMID 6650969.
^ Anderson, Craig A.; Bushman, Brad J. (February 2002). "Human Aggression". Annual Review of Psychology. 53 (1): 27–51. doi:10.1146/annurev.psych.53.100901.135231. ISSN 0066-4308. PMID 11752478. S2CID 227846. Archived from the original on 2022-11-26. Retrieved 2023-04-22.
^ According to Aristotle: "The person who is angry at the right things and toward the right people, and also in the right way, at the right time and for the right length of time is morally praiseworthy." cf. Paul M. Hughes, Anger, Encyclopedia of Ethics, Vol I, Second Edition, Rutledge Press
^ Haque, Amber (2004). "Psychology from Islamic Perspective: Contributions of Early Muslim Scholars and Challenges to Contemporary Muslim Psychologists". Journal of Religion and Health. 43 (4): 357–377 [367]. doi:10.1007/s10943-004-4302-z. S2CID 38740431.
^ In the Garden of Evil: Vices and Culture in the Middle Ages. Richard Newhauser. PIMS, 200
^ St. Thomas Aquinas Blackfriars; McGraw-Hill, N.Y.K. 1963, Question 158
^ a b c d e In the Garden of Evil: Vices and Culture in the Middle Ages. Richard Newhauser. PIMS, 2005
^ Conway, Colleen (2008). Behold the Man: Jesus and Greco-Roman Masculinity. New York: Oxford University Press. p. 28. ISBN 978-0-19-532532-4.
^ Edward Peacock (editor), revised by F.J. Furnivall (1902). Instructions for Parish Priests by John Myrc, p.48, lines 1567–74, Trübner, accessed 15 December 2014 at Internet Archive.
^ Haque, Amber (2004). "Psychology from Islamic Perspective: Contributions of Early Muslim Scholars and Challenges to Contemporary Muslim Psychologists". Journal of Religion and Health. 43 (4): 357–377 [366]. doi:10.1007/s10943-004-4302-z. S2CID 38740431.
^ Haque, Amber (2004). "Psychology from Islamic Perspective: Contributions of Early Muslim Scholars and Challenges to Contemporary Muslim Psychologists". Journal of Religion and Health. 43 (4): 357–377 [362]. doi:10.1007/s10943-004-4302-z. S2CID 38740431.
^ Haque, Amber (2004). "Psychology from Islamic Perspective: Contributions of Early Muslim Scholars and Challenges to Contemporary Muslim Psychologists". Journal of Religion and Health. 43 (4): 357–377 [366–368]. doi:10.1007/s10943-004-4302-z. S2CID 38740431.
^ Srinivasan, Amia (2016-11-30). "Would Politics Be Better Off Without Anger?". The Nation. ISSN 0027-8378. Archived from the original on 2020-06-26. Retrieved 2020-06-24.
^ a b Chemaly, Soraya (2019-05-11). "How women and minorities are claiming their right to rage". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Archived from the original on 2020-07-14. Retrieved 2020-06-24.
^ Kipnis, Laura (2018-10-02). "Women Are Furious. Now What?". The Atlantic. Archived from the original on 2020-06-27. Retrieved 2020-06-24.
^ a b Kaufmann Kohler, Anger Archived 2010-02-06 at the Wayback Machine, Jewish Encyclopedia
^ Ethics of the Fathers 4:1
^ Rambam, Hilchot de'ot 2
^ Sefer HaTanya, p. 535
^ Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 29:4
^ Harold S. Kushner, When Bad Things Happen to Good People (Schocken Books, 1981), 44.
^ Blumenthal, David. "Facing the Abusing God: A Theology of Protest (Westminster/John Knox, 1993)". Religion.emory.edu. p. 223. Archived from the original on 2014-01-15.
^ Herbermann, Charles, ed. (1913). "Anger" . Catholic Encyclopedia. New York: Robert Appleton Company.
^ Henri J.M. Nouwen, "Forward" in May I Hate God? Pierre Wolff, 2 (Paulist Press, 1979).
^ Georges Bernanos, The Diary of a Country Priest (London: Fontana Books, 1956), 126–150 passim.
^ Lester, Andrew D. "Anger: Discovering Your Spiritual Ally – (Westminster John Knox, 2007)" (PDF). Acpe.edu. pp. 11–12. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2013-10-17.
^ Lester, Andrew D. "Coping with Your Anger: A Christian Guide – (Westminster John Knox, 1983)" (PDF). Acpe.edu. pp. 92–94. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2013-10-17.
^ C. FitzSimons Allison, Guilt, Anger, and God (Regent College Publishing, 2003. 1st published by Seabury Press, 1972), 88.
^ Pine, Leonard. "Remonstrating with God in Adversity: A Study in Habakkuk". WRS. 3:1 (February 1996) 21–26. Archived from the original on 2013-12-01. Retrieved 2013-10-16.
^ New Revised Standard Version
^ Anger (HinduDharma: Dharmas Common To All) Archived 2017-05-28 at the Wayback Machine, Shri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham
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^ Spiegelberg, Frederic; Stein, Richard (September 1980). "Sargeant, Winthrop, trans.The Bhagavad Gita. New York, Doubleday, 1979". The San Francisco Jung Institute Library Journal. 2 (1): 23–31. doi:10.1525/jung.1.1980.2.1.23. ISSN 0270-6210.
^ The Nectar of Instruction 1
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^ Quran 3:134
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^ Quran 7:150
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^ Sahih al-Bukhari, 8:73:135
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^ a b Shailer Mathews, Gerald Birney Smith, A Dictionary of Religion and Ethics, Kessinger Publishing, p.17
Further reading[edit]
Books[edit]
Cassian, John (1885). "Book VIII: Of the Spirit of Anger" . Ante-Nicene Christian Library, Volume XI. Translated by Philip Schaff. T. & T. Clark in Edinburgh.
Theodore I. Rubin (1998). The Angry Book. Simon and Schuster. ISBN 978-0-684-84201-1.
Harriet Lerner (2014). The Dance of Anger: A Woman's Guide to Changing the Patterns of Intimate Relationships. HarperCollins. ISBN 978-0-06-232852-6.
Monica Ramirez Basco (2000). Never Good Enough: How to Use Perfectionism to Your Advantage Without Letting it Ruin Your Life. Simon and Schuster. ISBN 978-0-684-86293-4.
Jesse Wright; Monica Ramirez Basco (2010). Getting Your Life Back. Simon and Schuster. ISBN 978-0-7432-1486-5.
Novaco, R. W. (1 January 2016). "Chapter 35 – Anger". In Fink, George (ed.). Stress: Concepts, Cognition, Emotion, and Behavior. Handbook of Stress Series. Vol. 1. Academic Press. pp. 285–292. doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-800951-2.00035-2. ISBN 9780128009512. Archived from the original on 14 April 2021. Retrieved 12 October 2019.
Vianney, Jean-Marie-Baptiste (1960). "Anger does not travel alone" . The Sermons of the Curé of Ars. Henry Regnery Company.
Articles[edit]
Maintaining A Good and Healthy Anger Archived 2018-12-26 at the Wayback Machine
Managing emotions in the workplace Archived 2012-05-24 at the Wayback Machine
Controlling Anger – Before It Controls You Archived 2007-10-05 at the Wayback Machine
What Your Anger May Be Hiding – Leon F Seltzer Ph.D.
The Interpersonal Effects of Anger and Happiness in Negotiations
Get mad and get more than even: When and why anger expression is effective in negotiations Archived 2023-04-11 at the Wayback Machine
How To Manage Anger, Stay Calm And Live A Good Life Archived 2021-07-22 at the Wayback Machine
Anger and advancement versus sadness and subjugation: the effect of negative emotion expressions on social status conferral Archived 2019-10-13 at the Wayback Machine
vteEmotions (list)Emotions
Acceptance
Admiration
Adoration
Aesthetic
Affection
Agitation
Agony
Amusement
Anger
Angst
Anguish
Annoyance
Anticipation
Anxiety
Apathy
Arousal
Attraction
Awe
Belongingness
Boredom
Calmness
Compassion
Confidence
Confusion
Contempt
Contentment
Courage
Cruelty
Curiosity
Defeat
Depression
Desire
Disappointment
Disgust
Distrust
Doubt
Ecstasy
Embarrassment
vicarious
Emotion work
Empathy
Emptiness
Enthrallment
Enthusiasm
Envy
Euphoria
Excitement
Faith
Fear
Flow
Frustration
Gratification
Gratitude
Greed
Grief
Guilt
Happiness
Joie de vivre
Hatred
Hiraeth
Homesickness
Hope
Horror
Hostility
Humiliation
Hygge
Hysteria
Ikigai (sense of purpose)
Indulgence
Infatuation
Insecurity
Inspiration
Interest
Irritation
Isolation
Jealousy
Joy
Kindness
Loneliness
Love
limerence
at first sight
Lust
Mono no aware
Neglect
Nostalgia
Outrage
Panic
Passion
Pity
self-pity
Pleasure
Pride
grandiosity
hubris
insult
vanity
Rage
Regret
Rejection
Relief
Remorse
Resentment
Revenge
Sadness
melancholy
Saudade
Schadenfreude
Sehnsucht
Sentimentality
Shame
Shock
Shyness
Social connection
Sorrow
Spite
Stress
chronic
Suffering
Surprise
Sympathy
Trust
Wonder
sense of wonder
Worry
Worldviews
Cynicism
Defeatism
Nihilism
Optimism
Pessimism
Reclusion
Weltschmerz
Related
Affect
consciousness
in education
measures
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Affective
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forecasting
neuroscience
science
spectrum
Affectivity
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Appeal to emotion
Amygdala hijack
Emotion
and art
and memory
and music
and sex
and sleep
classification
evolution
expressed
functional accounts
group
homeostatic
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perception
recognition
in conversation
regulation
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work
Emotional
aperture
bias
blackmail
competence
conflict
contagion
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eating
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expression
and gender
intelligence
and bullying
Empathy quotient
intimacy
isolation
lability
labor
lateralization
literacy
prosody
reasoning
responsivity
security
symbiosis
Emotional thought method
well-being
Emotionality
bounded
Emotions
and culture
history
in decision-making
in the workplace
in virtual communication
moral
self-conscious
social
social sharing
sociology
Feeling
Group affective tone
Interactions between the emotional and executive brain systems
Jealousy in art
Meta-emotion
Pathognomy
Pathos
Social emotional development
Stoic passions
Theory
affect
appraisal
constructed emotion
discrete emotion
somatic marker
Italics indicate emotion names in foreign languages
vteSeven deadly sinsThe sins
Lust
Gluttony
Envy
Greed
Sloth
Pride
Wrath
Describing the sins
Evagrius Ponticus
John Cassian
Pope Gregory I
Dante Alighieri
Peter Binsfeld
In art and culture
Divine Comedy
Inferno
Purgatorio
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Monica Vermani C. Psych.
A Deeper Wellness
Anger
Understanding and Processing Anger
Looking beneath the "blanket" of anger can lead to deeper understanding.
Posted June 7, 2022
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Reviewed by Ekua Hagan
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THE BASICS
How Can I Manage My Anger?
Find a therapist to heal from anger
Key points
An estimated 90 percent of aggressive incidents are preceded by anger.
Anger is largely perceived as a secondary emotion.
Anger shows up when a person feels the need to defend themselves. It’s a sign that something needs attention.
Learning to look beneath the "blanket" of anger can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves, and more compassionate, authentic interactions with the people in our lives.
Anger is an emotion we’re all familiar with. We’ve all been disappointed and hurt, and felt used, threatened, or let down. When anger shows up, we experience physical symptoms, like muscle tension, a knot in the stomach, and a sudden racing heartbeat. Anger never feels good, and it often leads to unpleasant interactions with others, with damaging negative consequences. Anger is a negative emotion, like jealousy, hate, and sometimes sadness. Anger can be explosive, violent, and destructive.
There’s a Chinese proverb that cautions against acting out in anger: If you are patient in one moment of anger, you will escape a hundred days of sorrow. Wise words… but as anyone who has ever experienced anger knows, dealing patiently when feeling angry is easier said than done. What are we talking about when we talk about anger? Is it possible to control anger while standing up for ourselves when we’re feeling threatened or hurt in some way?
A secondhand emotion
Most of us have at least one regret about acting out in anger. And most of us would love to know how to better handle ourselves and our interactions with others when we’re angry. Let’s look at exactly what we’re dealing with: The American Psychological Association defines anger as “a negative feeling state that is typically associated with hostile thoughts, physiological arousal, and maladaptive behaviours.” Further, their research shows that “about 90 percent of aggressive incidents are preceded by anger.” Anger is widely recognized by mental health professionals as a secondary — what I refer to as a "blanket" — emotion.
Anger on the rise
With daily reports of heated confrontations in airports, grocery stores, and other normally neutral settings, it is clear that anger is on the rise. According to Gallup’s annual Global Emotions Report, “In 2020, the world was a sadder, angrier, more worried and more stressed-out place than it has been at any time in the past 15 years.“
Hans Steiner, Professor Emeritus at Stanford’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, explains how the pandemic has contributed to the rise in anger: “The COVID situation does present us with unprecedented challenges which interfere unrelentingly with all our lives. Social isolation may be the best tool to keep the virus under control, but this clashes directly with the need for social interventions helping us resolve anger and rage when being at the mercy of injustice and uncertainty.”
In a January 2022 New York Times article, Sarah Lyall examined consumer rage and interviewed a number of people on the receiving end of consumer anger. One merchant described an encounter with an enraged customer: “You’re looking at someone and thinking, ‘I don’t think this is about the cheese.’”
It’s most definitely not about the cheese, or the long line at the grocery check-out, or the bad driver in the parking lot, or wherever and however else anger shows up. It’s about that secondary blanket emotion of anger, and what lies beneath it. And there’s no better time than here and now to learn how to understand what’s going on and process our anger.
Funneling anger
Anger shows up when we feel the need to defend ourselves. It’s a sign that something is wrong and needs our attention and consideration. Neither acting out in anger nor holding it in produces a desirable result. Anger demands our attention, as it buries our more authentic primary emotions, and prevents us from seeing ourselves and our situation clearly, and understanding what is happening within ourselves.
THE BASICS
How Can I Manage My Anger?
Find a therapist to heal from anger
In my 25 years as a clinical psychologist, I have successfully used the Anger Funnel to help patients better understand and process their anger and relate to others in a more positive, authentic, and effective way.
With the Anger Funnel, the process of understanding and processing anger is less difficult. Learning to lift the blanket emotion of anger and explore our true feelings leads us to a better understanding of and greater compassion for ourselves, and healthier, more positive, effective, and authentic interactions with others.
Here’s an illustration of the Anger Funnel from my book, A Deeper Wellness:
Here’s an illustration of the Anger Funnel from my book, A Deeper Wellness
Source: Source: A Deeper Wellness, Conquering Stress, Mood, Anxiety, and Traumas, @2022 by Dr. Monica Vermani, C. Psych
Step One: Think of a situation in your past that made you feel angry; a time where you acted out in anger or suppressed your anger and failed to stand up for yourself.
Step Two: Take a moment to remember that anger is a secondhand, blanket emotion that stems from primary emotions, such as sadness, feeling abandoned, betrayed, unsafe, lonely, scared, or taken advantage of. Think about what contributed to your feelings of anger in that situation.
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Step Three: Using the example of that situation, place the primary emotions that led to feelings of anger at the top of the Anger Funnel. Imagine these feelings trickling down the funnel and eventually pouring out the bottom as anger.
Step Four: Imagine — and write down, if you wish — how you might have processed your anger had you been able to better examine, understand, and communicate your feelings and concerns, rather than act out or suppress your anger.
Step Five: Put the funnel to work. The next time you’re angry with someone, take a moment to think about the feelings that have led to feeling angry. Have compassion for yourself and how you are feeling. Take the time to consider how best to resolve whatever is causing you to feel unsafe, threatened, or insecure. With these insights, respond compassionately, rather than reacting in anger.
A new way forward
Anger is a fight-or-flight emotion and an indicator that you need to find a new way forward. Learning to lift the blanket emotion of anger and explore the true feelings beneath will lead to a better understanding of, and greater compassion for, yourself and others. When you explore what lies beneath anger, you improve communication with yourself. This, in turn, leads to better and more authentic interactions with others.
What to do when anger shows up
Step back, rather than act out in anger.
Take a time out to allow feelings of anger to decrease.
Use the anger funnel to explore underlying primary emotions like sadness, disappointment, or fear that triggered your anger.
Acknowledge the true feelings beneath your anger.
Take steps to tackle the problematic situations in your life.
Seek help from a mental health professional if you find your anger is out of control.
To find a therapist, please visit the Psychology Today Therapy Directory.
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About the Author
Monica Vermani, C. Psych., is a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of trauma, stress, mood and anxiety disorders, and the author of A Deeper Wellness.
Online: Dr. Monica Vermani, C. Psych., Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn
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Anger Issues: Causes, Symptoms, and Management
Health ConditionsFeaturedBreast CancerIBD MigraineMultiple Sclerosis (MS)Rheumatoid ArthritisType 2 DiabetesSponsored TopicsArticlesAcid RefluxADHDAllergiesAlzheimer's & DementiaBipolar DisorderCancerCrohn's DiseaseChronic PainCold & FluCOPDDepressionFibromyalgiaHeart DiseaseHigh CholesterolHIVHypertensionIPFOsteoarthritisPsoriasisSkin Disorders and CareSTDsDiscoverWellness TopicsNutritionFitnessSkin CareSexual HealthWomen's HealthMental Well-BeingSleepProduct ReviewsVitamins & SupplementsSleepMental HealthNutritionAt-Home TestingCBDMen’s HealthOriginal SeriesFresh Food FastDiagnosis DiariesYou’re Not AlonePresent TenseVideo SeriesYouth in FocusHealthy HarvestThrough An Artist's EyeFuture of HealthPlanHealth ChallengesMindful EatingSugar SavvyMove Your BodyGut HealthMood FoodsAlign Your SpineFind CarePrimary CareMental HealthOB-GYNDermatologistsNeurologistsCardiologistsOrthopedistsLifestyle QuizzesWeight ManagementAm I Depressed? A Quiz for TeensAre You a Workaholic?How Well Do You Sleep?Tools & ResourcesHealth NewsFind a DietFind Healthy SnacksDrugs A-ZHealth A-ZConnectFind Your Bezzy CommunityBreast CancerInflammatory Bowel DiseasePsoriatic ArthritisMigraineMultiple SclerosisPsoriasisFollow us on social mediaHealthlineHealth ConditionsDiscoverPlanConnectSubscribeMental Well-BeingLifeYouth in FocusMind & BodySelf-CareConditionsTherapyMaternal WellnessParentingCrisis SupportDo I Have Anger Issues? How to Identify and Treat an Angry OutlookMedically reviewed by Bethany Juby, PsyD — By Adrienne Santos-Longhurst — Updated on February 7, 2024OverviewCausesSymptomsTypesDiagnosisTreatmentSummaryAnger is an essential emotion, but when it can’t be managed and controlled, it becomes a problem. What are anger issues?Anger is a natural, instinctive response to threats. Some anger is necessary for our survival. Anger becomes a problem when you have trouble managing it, causing you to say or do things you regret. A 2010 study found that uncontrolled anger is bad for your physical and mental health. It can also quickly escalate to verbal or physical violence, harming you and those around you.Learn more about identifying your triggers and managing your anger below. What causes anger issues?Many things can trigger anger, including stress, family problems, and financial issues. For some people, anger results from an underlying disorder, such as alcoholism or depression. Anger itself isn’t considered a disorder, but anger is a known symptom of several mental health conditions.The following are some of the possible causes of anger issues.DepressionAnger can be a symptom of depression, which involves ongoing feelings of sadness and loss of interest lasting at least 2 weeks. Anger can be suppressed or openly expressed. The intensity of the anger and how you express it varies from person to person.If you have depression, you may experience other symptoms. These include:irritabilityloss of energyfeelings of hopelessnessthoughts of self-harm or suicideObsessive-compulsive disorder Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder involving obsessive thoughts and compulsive behavior. A person with OCD has unwanted, disturbing thoughts, urges, or images that drive them to do something repetitively. For example, they may perform certain rituals, such as counting to a number or repeating a word or phrase, because of an irrational belief that something bad will happen if they don’t.A 2011 study found that anger is a common symptom of OCD. It affects approximately half of people with OCD. Anger may come from frustration from not being able to prevent obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors or from having someone or something interfere with your ability to carry out a ritual.Alcohol misuseResearch shows that drinking alcohol increases aggression. Alcohol is a contributing factor in approximately half of all violent crimes committed in the United States. Alcohol misuse refers to consuming too much alcohol at once or regularly.Alcohol reduces your ability to think clearly and make rational decisions. It affects your impulse control and can make it harder for you to manage your emotions.Attention deficit hyperactivity disorderAttention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Symptoms usually start in early childhood and continue throughout a person’s life. Some people do not receive a diagnosis until adulthood, which is sometimes referred to as adult ADHD.Anger and short temper can also occur in people of all ages with ADHD. Other symptoms include:restlessnessproblems focusingdifficulty with time management or planningOppositional defiant disorderOppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a behavioral disorder that affects 1–16% of school-age children. Common symptoms of ODD include:angershort temperirritability Children with ODD are often easily annoyed by others. They may be defiant and argumentative. Bipolar disorderBipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes dramatic shifts in your mood. These intense mood shifts can range from mania to depression, although not everyone with bipolar disorder will experience depression. Many people with bipolar disorder may experience periods of anger, irritability, and rage.During a manic episode, you may:be easily agitatedfeel euphorichave racing thoughtsengage in impulsive or reckless behaviorDuring a depressive episode, you may:feel sad, hopeless, or tearfullose interest in things you once enjoyedhave thoughts of suicideIntermittent explosive disorderA person with intermittent explosive disorder (IED) has repeated episodes of aggressive, impulsive, or violent behavior. They may overreact to situations with angry outbursts that are out of proportion to the situation. Episodes last less than 30 minutes and come on without warning. People with the disorder may feel irritable and angry most of the time.Some common behaviors include: temper tantrumsargumentsfightingphysical violencethrowing things People with IED may feel remorseful or embarrassed after an episode.GriefAnger is one of the stages of grief. Grief can come from the death of a loved one, a divorce or breakup, or the loss of a job. The anger may be directed at the person who died, anyone else involved in the event, or inanimate objects.Other symptoms of grief include:shocknumbnessguiltsadnesslonelinessfearAnger issues symptomsAnger causes physical and emotional symptoms. While it’s normal to experience these symptoms on occasion, a person with anger issues tends to experience them more often and to a more severe degree.Physical symptomsAnger affects different parts of your body, including your heart, brain, and muscles. A 2011 study found that anger also causes an increase in testosterone and a decrease in cortisol.The physical signs and symptoms of anger include:increased blood pressureincreased heart ratetingling sensation muscle tensionEmotional There are a number of emotions that go hand in hand with anger. You may notice the following emotional symptoms before, during, or after an episode of anger:irritabilityfrustrationanxietyragestressfeeling overwhelmedguiltAnger issues typesAnger can manifest itself in a number of different ways. Not all anger is expressed in the same way. Anger and aggression can be outward, inward, or passive.Outward: This involves expressing your anger and aggression in an obvious way. This can include behavior such as shouting, cursing, throwing or breaking things, or being verbally or physically abusive toward others.Inward: This type of anger is directed at yourself. It involves negative self-talk, denying yourself things that make you happy or even basic needs, such as food. Self-harm and isolating yourself from people are other ways anger can be directed inward.Passive: This involves using subtle and indirect ways to express your anger. Examples of this passive-aggressive behavior include giving someone the silent treatment, sulking, being sarcastic, and making snide remarks.Do I have anger issues?You may have anger issues if:you feel angry oftenyou feel that your anger seems out of controlyour anger is affecting your relationships your anger is hurting othersyour anger causes you to say or do things you regretyou’re verbally or physically abusiveAnger issues managementIf you believe your anger is out of control or if it’s negatively affecting your life or relationships, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. A mental health professional can help determine if you have an underlying mental health condition that may be causing your anger issues. They can also help treat it to reduce your anger.Anger management can also include one or more of the following:relaxation techniquesbehavioral therapydepression, anxiety, or ADHD medications, if you have a diagnosis of any of these conditionsanger management classes, which can be taken in person, by phone, or onlineanger management exercises at homesupport groups»Here are:9 Best Affordable Therapy Options of 2023: Tried and TestedTakeawayAnger is an essential emotion, but if your anger seems out of control or is affecting your relationships, you may have anger issues. A mental health professional can help you work through your anger and identify any underlying mental health conditions that may be a contributing factor. With anger management and other treatments, you can learn skills to help manage your anger. Last medically reviewed on February 7, 2024How we reviewed this article:SourcesHistoryHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. (2023).https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/index.shtmlAnger. (2023.https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/anger/Beck A, et al. (2013). Alcohol-related aggression—Social and neurobiological factors.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3820993/Bipolar disorder. (2017).https://www.nami.org/learn-more/mental-health-conditions/bipolar-disorderControlling anger before it controls you. (2023).https://www.apa.org/topics/anger/control.aspxHerrero N, et al. (2010). What happens when we get angry? Hormonal, cardiovascular and asymmetrical brain responses.https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0018506X09002785?via%3DihubOppositional defiant disorder. (2019).https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/Children-With-Oppositional-Defiant-Disorder-072.aspxPainuly NP, et al. (2011). Anger attacks in obsessive compulsive disorder.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3530280/Sahu A, et al. (2014). Depression is more than just sadness: A case of excessive anger and its management in depression.Staicu ML, et al. (2010). Anger and health risk behaviors.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3019061/Steffgen G. (2017). Anger management: Evaluation of a cognitive-behavioral training program for table tennis players.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28210339/The Understood Team. ADHD and anger. (n.d.).https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/add-adhd/adhd-and-anger-what-you-need-to-knowWhat is OCD? (n.d.).https://iocdf.org/about-ocd/Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.Current VersionFeb 7, 2024Written ByAdrienne Santos-LonghurstEdited ByAri HowardMedically Reviewed ByBethany Juby, PsyDCopy Edited ByShanika WigleyFeb 3, 2023Written ByAdrienne Santos-LonghurstEdited ByJulia StevensonCopy Edited ByCopy EditorsVIEW ALL HISTORY Share this articleMedically reviewed by Bethany Juby, PsyD — By Adrienne Santos-Longhurst — Updated on February 7, 2024Read this nextHow to Deal with Pent-Up AngerMedically reviewed by Timothy J. Legg, PhD, PsyDPent-up anger can result in blowing up or acting out when you know you can get away with it. You may feel irritable most of the day or have frequent…READ MOREWhy Am I So Angry?Medically reviewed by Timothy J. Legg, PhD, PsyDSometimes people experience intense anger that spirals out of control. In these cases, anger is not a normal emotion but a major problem.READ MOREAnger Management Exercises to Help You Stay CalmMedically reviewed by Timothy J. Legg, PhD, PsyDAnger management exercises can help you learn to manage your anger in healthy ways. From deep breathing and physical exercise to improved listening…READ MOREWhat Is Narcissistic Rage, and What’s the Best Way to Deal with It?Medically reviewed by Jennifer Litner, PhD, LMFT, CSTExperiencing or witnessing a narcissistic rage can be a frightening experience. Understand what fuels the anger, how to protect yourself, and how to…READ MOREADHD and Anger: What’s the Connection?Medically reviewed by Nathan Greene, PsyDADHD can include symptoms of anger, frustration, and irritability. We'll break it down. READ MOREWhat We Know About Antidepressant Use in PregnancyAccording to a new mouse study, antidepressant use during pregnancy may affect a brain development in utero.READ MOREEverything You Need to Know About Executive FunctionMedically reviewed by Francis Kuehnle, MSN, RN-BCExecutive function involves high level cognitive abilities such as problem-solving. It is possible to experience executive dysfunction. READ MOREUnpacking the Notion of Love AddictionMedically reviewed by Kendra Kubala, PsyDConstantly dream of romance? Fixate on thoughts of your partner? Feel a need to always be in love? Learn why — and why this isn't an "addiction." READ MOREAbout UsContact UsPrivacy PolicyPrivacy SettingsAdvertising PolicyHealth TopicsMedical AffairsContent IntegrityNewsletters© 2024 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 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