High and low trait anger, and the recognition of anger problems

Span J Psychol. 2011 Nov;14(2):851-8. doi: 10.5209/rev_sjop.2011.v14.n2.32.

Abstract

This study compared three groups of people: (a) high trait anger individuals who recognized personal anger problems (HR); (b) high trait anger individuals who did not recognize personal anger problems (HNR); and (c) low trait anger individuals not reporting personal anger problems (LNR). Compared to LNR participants, HR and HNR groups reported more anger-out (i.e., outward negative expression of anger such as arguing with others), anger-in (i.e., anger suppression and harboring grudges), greater desire to use and actual use of physically aggressive anger expression (e.g., pushing or shoving someone), and less anger control-in (i.e., emotionally focused strategies to lower anger such as relaxation) and anger control-out (i.e., behaviorally focused strategies such as being patient with others). HR individuals reported more trait anger (i.e., higher propensity to experience anger) and less anger control-out than the HNR group. Gender did not relate to the recognition of anger problems. Findings were discussed with regard to theory and clinical implications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Affective Symptoms / diagnosis*
  • Affective Symptoms / psychology*
  • Aggression / psychology
  • Anger*
  • Character*
  • Female
  • Hostility
  • Humans
  • Internal-External Control
  • Male
  • Personality Inventory / statistics & numerical data
  • Psychometrics
  • Sex Factors
  • Students / psychology
  • Young Adult