3 Types of Anger and How To Manage Them

Anger is a natural emotion that everyone experiences from time to time. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including frustration, disappointment, fear, or even an unexpected change in plans. However, anger management issues are a serious struggle for many and can affect them in their day-to-day lives. ACT Teletherapy goes over the three types of anger, their causes, and how to manage them effectively using helpful methods and online anger management therapy.

1. Open Aggression

 Open aggression is a common behavior where individuals tend to display their anger and frustration through physical or verbal aggression, causing harm to themselves or others. This behavior is often seen in various forms such as fighting, bullying, blackmailing, accusing, shouting, bickering, sarcasm, and criticism, which are all used to gain control. Dealing with open aggression can be challenging, but learning about ‘assertive anger’ can be helpful. It’s important to note that anger can also lead to damaging behavior towards property or self-harm, which will be discussed in the following section.

2. Passive Aggression

 Passive aggression is a behavior that is often used as a means of avoiding confrontation, where individuals choose not to acknowledge their anger or frustration directly. This behavior can be harmful to relationships and can cause significant stress for both parties involved. Common passive-aggressive behaviors include giving the silent treatment, sulking, procrastinating, and pretending that everything is fine when it’s not.

If you are dealing with someone who displays passive-aggressive behavior, ACT Teletherapy can help with finding effective management solutions. Assertiveness is a useful method if used healthily. It’s a way of expressing your emotions clearly and directly, without attacking or blaming the other person. It involves being honest and assertive about your feelings and needs while respecting the other person’s perspective.

3. Assertive Aggression

 A constructive way to manage anger is through assertive behavior, which involves controlling your emotions, communicating confidently and effectively, and being open to seeking help if needed. By adopting an assertive approach, you can build and strengthen relationships with others. This involves taking the time to think before speaking, speaking with confidence while remaining open-minded, exhibiting patience, avoiding yelling, expressing your emotions, and making an effort to understand others’ perspectives.

Adopting an assertive approach demonstrates your maturity and your commitment to maintaining positive relationships with others. Forgiveness is also an important component of managing anger, especially when someone has apologized or when you realize the situation is not worth holding onto anger. Being open to forgiving others and yourself can help you calm down and enhance your relationships with others.

Get Online Anger Management Therapy With ACT Teletherapy

 If you or a loved one can benefit from online anger management therapy, we can help. Our therapists at ACT Teletherapy are qualified and experienced in providing effective solutions. Contact us today.