subject: Dealing With Anger [print this page] Too often anger results in aggressionToo often anger results in aggression. Understanding the causes of anger can make dealing with anger less stressful. There are different strategies that can be used to recognize and respond to the heightened feelings anger produces.
Understanding the reason for anger can help to address the cause before it becomes a problem. Often the issue is not even a large one. It is merely the culmination of smaller issues. When a build up of irritations continues, eventually there must be a release. Reviewing and writing down what is good and bad about a person's life can help. The source of small irritations can be removed and replaced with more pleasurable tasks.
For some people driving in traffic is a source of frustration and anger. For others a crowded nightclub can have the same impact. It may not be possible to avoid these places but recognizing them can give forewarning. Before getting in the car or setting out for the nightclub, think of at least one positive strategy for coping with anger if it should occur.
Anger has a physical impact on the body. The heart rate increases and muscles tense. Consciously recognizing the physical changes that occur allow a person to reject the fight option. Instead they can employ relaxation techniques to return the body to a calmer state.
Learning problem solving techniques and how to be assertive rather than aggressive provide an individual with more positive alternatives. Choosing positive behavior in response to anger always has a better result.
Negative responses to anger have consequences and those consequences can have a lasting impact in a person's life. Anger released as aggression has been the cause of job losses, marriage and relationship breakups and even criminal proceedings. Taking even one moment to think about the consequences can sometimes be enough of a pause to halt an inappropriate response.
Anger like every other emotion needs to be understood to be controlled. Dealing with anger is not always easy but with the right preparation and techniques it can be focused to achieve positive outcomes.
