ABSTRACT
When clients get angry, they can get hostile in their words and tone. They may start verbally attacking their partner or their therapist in session, which usually sparks a reaction on the inside of everyone in the room. Anger, in general, when expressed, can alienate others who are on the receiving end of it. Anger is an expression of pain or fear. The more the anger, the deeper the pain, or the stronger the fear. The more the pain, the more sensitive and reactive the person is. Reactive behavior is an expression of pain. Anger has a function; it serves a purpose. Understanding how the anger is functioning for a particular person is an essential part of diffusing the intensity of the anger. Many therapists do not recognize that there is an anger of hope and an anger of despair. Anger is a very adaptive emotion. It helps people protect and/or advocate for themselves. Anger arouses the reactive defense system.
