Everyone experiences feelings of anger, and that is okay. When normal feelings
become excessive or are expressed in hostile ways they become unhealthy.
What are some unhealthy expressions of anger?
- Short temper or excessive irritability
- Agitated feelings and overt expressions of hostility
- Verbal or physical threats, or being physically abusive or violent towards
another when angry
- Excessive control over others
-“Pushy” behavior
What causes excessive anger or aggression?
To control anger you must first realize what the cause is. Common causes often
include:
- Bottled up angry feelings or the inability to emotionally cope with
a situation
- A perceived loss of control in factors that affect you
- Not adequately accepting unchangeable aspects of your life
- Rejection, loss, or feeling threatened
What are some suggestions for an individual who has trouble controlling anger?
- Recognize your anger as a problem.
- Identify the cause, and explore emotions of hurt and fear underlying
the anger.
- Talk over problems and issues with others instead of keeping them bottled
up.
- Focus on the goal of expressing feelings in appropriate, non-hostile
ways.
- Develop empathy towards others, assume others’ best intentions
and learn to forgive.
- Accept the reality of the situation and choose to focus on the positive.
- Find ways to calm down: relaxation exercises, use of humor and physical
activity.
For further information, visit www.apa.org or www.anger.org.
