The Stress Emotions: Anger and Fear Chapter 5

“To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” —Nelson Mandela

Anger and Fear There are two emotions specifically associated with the stress response: – anger – fear Anger produces the urge to fight. Fear promotes the urge to run and hide.

The Anatomy of Anger The Colors (Manifestations) of Anger Impatience Rage Hostility Prejudice Sarcasm Cynicism Jealousy Envy Guilt Frustration Resentment Fear Others?

The Anatomy of Anger (continued) Rage Reflex – aggressive nature of all animals for survival. Anger and unmet expectations Emotional Literacy (intelligence) – ability to express emotions in a healthy way. Anger is an energizing emotion, fear is an energy-draining emotion Gender similarities/differences

Correcting the Myth of Catharsis Not all venting of anger is good or healthy! 1.Cast anger in the right direction 2.Expression must offer a sense of self- control (not revenge) 3.Expression of anger must be understood by others 4.Expression must not antagonize others Should be direct and diplomatic.

Four Mismanaged Anger Styles Unresolved anger becomes a control issue –The Somatizer –The Self-punisher –The Exploder –The Underhander

The Somatizer Suppress rather than express (soma=body) Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD) Migraines Rheumatoid arthritis Hypertension Liver problems Many women (but not all) tend to be somatizers

The Self-Punisher Expressed as self-punishment for guilt of anger. Excessive eating Excessive sleeping Excessive exercise Shopping Cutting (self-mutilation)

The Exploder Hostile, often displaced and intimidating Road rage Phone rage Violent behavior (e.g., Columbine HS) Excessive swearing Type A - CHD

The Underhander Passive-aggressive behavior (sabotage) Sarcasm Late for meetings Not returning phone calls Padding one’s expense account Seeking revenge

Creative Anger Strategies Know your anger style Learn to monitor your anger Learn to de-escalate your anger Learn to out-think your anger Get comfortable with all your feelings—express them constructively Plan ahead Develop a strong support system Develop realistic expectations of yourself and others Learn problem-solving techniques Stay in shape Turn complaints into requests Make past anger pass: forgiveness

The Anatomy of Fear The Colors (Manifestations) of Fear DoubtAnxiety SuspicionAgitation WorryParanoia Embarrassment Others?

The Anatomy of Fear (continued) Fear is a learned reaction (conditioned) Rational vs. irrational fears When is fear appropriate? When is fear unwarranted?

The Anatomy of Fear (Basic Human Fears) Fear of failure Fear of rejection Fear of the unknown Fear of death Fear of isolation Fear of the loss of self-dominance

Strategies to Overcome Fear Fear must be confronted (diplomatically) to be resolved! –Behavior Therapy - Systematic desensitization –Realistic expectations –Learn to stop making excuses and stop beating yourself up –Plan for the future, rather than worry about it— be proactive!

Depression: A By-Product of Anger/Fear High use of anti-depressants in America (33%) Depression—Anger turned inward? Symptoms: - Overwhelming sadness- Perpetual blues - Prolonged grieving- Feeling melancholy –Others ______________________________

Depression: Antidepressants Only Treat Symptoms “A chemical cure cannot heal emotional wounds.” —Susan Skog Author, Depression: What Your Body Is Trying to Tell You