Chapter 5 The Stress Emotions: Anger and Fear They called me the angriest Negro in America. I wouldn’t deny that charge. I spoke exactly as I felt. I believe in anger. - Malcolm X - Malcolm X

Anger and fear n there are two emotions especially associated with the stress response: – anger – fear n anger produces the urge to fight. n fear promotes the urge to run and hide.

The anatomy of anger n rage reflex n gender differences n physiological responses n the myths of catharsis n anger mismanagement styles – somatizers – self-punishers – exploders – underhanders

Creative anger strategies n know your anger style n learn to monitor your anger n learn to de-escalate your anger n learn to out-think your anger

Creative anger strategies n get comfortable with all your feelings -- express them constructively n plan ahead n develop a strong support system n develop realistic expectations of yourself and others

Creative anger strategies n learn problem solving techniques n stay in shape n turn complaints into requests n make past anger pass: forgiveness

The anatomy of fear (basic human fears) n fear of failure n fear of rejection n fear of the unknown n fear of death n fear of isolation n fear of the loss of self-dominance

A strategy to overcome fear (systematic desensitization) The most effective way to dissolve fear is to confront it. One way to do this is through a technique called systematic desensitization, where the stressor is confronted piecemeal to build a psychological immunity to it. The most effective way to dissolve fear is to confront it. One way to do this is through a technique called systematic desensitization, where the stressor is confronted piecemeal to build a psychological immunity to it.

Depression n Silent face of stress –Persistent sadness –Loss of interest –Lethargic moods –Appetite changes –Difficulty concentrating –Pervading hopelessness –Alcohol, drug use –Thoughts of death and suicide n Anger turned inward n “a chemical cure cannot heal emotional wounds”