The Psychology of Anger: What Hershel Korngut Reveals About Its Origins
Anger is an emotion that we all experience at some point, yet its roots are often complex and multifaceted. In his work, Hershel Korngut delves deep into the psychological underpinnings of anger, offering valuable insights into why we feel it and how it manifests in our lives. By exploring both individual and societal factors, Korngut uncovers the hidden dynamics that fuel this powerful emotion. However, Hershel Korngut says that not all anger is harmful. If anger is not leading to harmful behavior, developing into a frequent or habitual reaction, or destroying relationships, it can occasionally be healthy. Some people are more likely to get angry because of things that happened to them as children, in the past, or even recently. Fear, pain, or frustration are the main causes of anger, though mental health issues are also frequently the cause. Continue reading to find out more about the reasons behind anger and how to deal with it if it is affecting your relationships or your quality of life.
Common Triggers of Anger Anger can be triggered by various emotional, psychological, and physical factors, and these triggers can vary from person to person: ● Stress: High-pressure situations, deadlines, or overwhelming responsibilities can cause frustration and anger. ● Frustration: When things don’t go as planned, feeling stuck or unable to reach goals can lead to anger. ● Feelings of Injustice: Perceived unfairness, whether in personal relationships or at work, often sparks anger. ● Physical Discomfort: Hunger, pain, or exhaustion can make individuals more prone to irritation and anger. ● Miscommunication: Poor communication or misunderstandings can lead to frustration, escalating into anger. Each person reacts differently to these triggers based on past experiences, emotional resilience, and coping mechanisms. Recognizing these personal triggers is the first step toward better anger management.
Conditions That Can Cause Anger Issues Understanding what causes anger can be tricky. While specific events may make you angry, there are also deeper causes of anger issues that can start in childhood. A recent study found that nearly 8% of the general population struggles with intense, uncontrolled anger. Almost 90% of those with unmanaged anger also had a mental health disorder. Mental health conditions often contribute to how angry someone gets and can be the main cause of anger issues for many people.
Depression
Many people think of depression as just sadness and a lack of motivation. However, anger is also a common symptom of depression, whether it’s shown openly or hidden. Between 30% and 40% of depressed individuals have "anger attacks."
OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) OCD involves unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and actions (compulsions) to stop them. Anger is a common symptom, and about 50% of people with OCD experience anger attacks. Alcohol Abuse Alcohol use disorder (AUD) affects millions of people, and it can make people feel angry. Drinking to cope with anger can make the problem worse. Alcohol abuse often causes increased hostility and aggression, which can create a cycle unless treated. ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) ADHD causes trouble focusing and hyperactivity, but it also leads to anger and frustration. Many people with ADHD have difficulty controlling their emotions, including anger, with about 70% of adults reporting issues managing their moods. Bipolar Disorder Bipolar disorder causes extreme mood swings, including periods of intense anger, known as "bipolar rage." This anger can happen without warning and may not have a specific cause. ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder) ODD is most common in children and causes them to act defiant and hostile toward authority figures. Anger and resentment are frequent symptoms for children with ODD.
How Understanding the Root Causes Can Help Understanding why you get angry is important for managing your emotions. Knowing what makes you angry allows you to deal with it before it becomes out of control. Hershel Korngut emphasizes that recognizing the deeper emotional causes behind your anger is the first step toward responding in a healthy way. Practical Steps to Identify Triggers and Emotional Roots:
1. Keep a Journal: Write about situations that make you angry. You can identify patterns and triggers with the aid of this. 2. Reflect on Past Experiences: Think about previous times when you got angry. What were the emotions or situations involved? 3. Pay Attention to Your Body: When anger starts to build, notice physical signs like clenched fists, tight muscles, or a fast heartbeat. These can be early warnings. 4. Ask for Feedback: Talk to trusted friends or family members to help you identify triggers you may not recognize. 5. Seek Professional Help: A therapist can help you explore your emotions and provide strategies for managing anger.
Biological Factors Contributing to Anger Anger isn’t just about emotions—it can also be influenced by biological factors like genetics, hormones, and brain function. These factors can make some people more prone to anger. ● Genetics: Some people may inherit a tendency to be more reactive or emotional, making anger easier to trigger. ● Hormones: Hormones like testosterone can influence how we react in stressful situations, making some people more aggressive. ● Brain Function: The brain plays a key role in controlling emotions. When areas like the amygdala are more active, people may experience stronger emotional reactions. According to expert Hershel Korngut, understanding these biological factors can help explain why some people have difficulty managing anger. Studies suggest that these factors can make anger harder to control but don’t make it impossible to manage.
Wrapping things up Understanding the root causes of anger is essential for better emotional control and healthier relationships. By recognizing triggers, reflecting on past experiences, and acknowledging biological factors, individuals can take practical steps to manage their anger. As Hershel Korngut suggests, addressing these underlying causes—whether emotional, psychological, or biological—can lead to more effective anger management and overall well-being. Seeking professional help when needed can further support this journey toward emotional balance.
