Question:
I saw this anger continuum was mentioned, but so far I haven’t been able to find a clear description of what it is?
I’ve googled, and this produces long articles – so I still don’t know – what is the anger continuum? thanks.
Answer:
Dear Friend, Maybe you are asking – what is the process of anger? My understanding is that anger really is a secondary emotion to fear, hurt, frustration, sadness, etc. Usually the initial emotion is fear- someone or something threatens you, your esteem or goals. Anger itself is an emotion ranging from frustration to aggression and violence. Anger can often be harmful therefore, people need to and can learn appropriate ways to manage anger.
Once the anger kicks in – you have to identify whether the issue is important and how to respond. When people don’t respond in healthy ways such as using assertive communication – anger may be turned into aggression or depression.
Anger is a normal emotion but, for most people, it becomes too extreme and happens too often. Why? Because there are so many other internal and external causes for anger such as:
1. false beliefs and assumptions, ie., “I must be right” or “It has to be fair”.
2. cognitive distortions like: jumping to conclusions or mind-reading; magnifying events, etc.
3. biases and misappraisals of events.
4. stress
Anger is an emotion which can be valid and an indicator that something is wrong – but, it can easily get out-of-control.
Corrected thinking, taking a time-out to evaluate issues and learning to communicate assertively with respect are keys to managing anger.
There are lots of resources available for a better understanding or anger. Visit our site for resources: What’s Good About Anger Institute
Lynette J. Hoy, NCC, LCPC
Diplomate, AAAMP; President, CounselCare Connection, P.C.
What’s Good About Anger Institute blog, podcasts and resources