February 27, 2023
Anger is part of the range of natural emotions in human beings. It is also necessary to face many circumstances. The problem arises when its manifestation is too violent and makes us say or do things that we regret.
As the Canadian Mental Health Association reminds us, “it’s what we do (with our anger, editor’s note) that counts”. Because this emotion, although powerful, can be managed in a healthy way and be useful and effective, when expressed “without aggression or violence” et “aims exclusively at behavior in others, and not at all at the person”, explains Belgian psychologist Salomon Nasielski in “The good use of anger”.
Yet, very often, one feels overwhelmed by emotion and one’s expression does not stay within these reasonable limits. Especially since when you feel anger, physiological changes occur. “Heart rate quickens, blood pressure increases, as do adrenaline and noradrenaline levels,” describes the American Psychological Association. A hormone and neurotransmitter that provides a one-time energy boost to the body. Possible results: shouting, insults, sometimes even violent gestures.
The causes of uncontrolled anger?
Several reasons can be at the origin of a loss of control in a situation of anger. The origin of the emotion, that is to say the situation which provoked it, has its role to play. A traffic jam or a deep injustice will probably not receive the same response. But other, more personal factors come into play. “Most of the time people prone to uncontrollable anger have a low tolerance for frustration”, says the American Psychological Association. They feel an injustice in the face of even minimal frustrations.
Another factor: the family environment. “Research has shown that people who get angry easily often come from chaotic, upset families who don’t know how to communicate their emotions properly,” continues the APA.
Finally, some disorders can lead to uncontrollable anger. This is the case with intermittent explosive disorder, or IED, characterized by frequent outbursts of excessive anger and impulsiveness. This requires medical and psychological care.
In any case, if you have the impression of not being able to control the manifestations of your anger, do not hesitate to talk to your doctor or consult a psychologist.
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Source : American Psychological Association – Canadian Association for Mental Health – Salomon Nasielski, “The good use of anger”. News in transactional analysis, vol. 132, no. 4, 2009, p. 1-14
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Written by : Dominique Salomon – Edited by: Emmanuel Ducreuzet