Where Does Anger Stem From?

Anger stems from intense specific beliefs or thoughts. These thoughts arise within our minds for a variety of reasons. However, what they all have in common is our perception. Everyone perceives the world slightly differently. Therefore, no two peoples’ reality is completely alike. How and what we think will shape our reality. 

One of the most common cognitions where the anger stems from is a belief that injustice has been committed against them. If people feel that they have been wronged, they will often become angry. Some people will display this anger externally by telling others. Other people will not openly display their anger and will withdraw inside themselves instead.

Feeling you have been disrespected or intentionally ignored is another perceived belief where anger tends to arise in people. It does not matter if the other person is meant to disrespect or ignore the offended. All that matters is the perception of the offended person who felt this way, regardless of whether it meant that way or not.

Another belief where anger tends to be activated is the thought that another person is attacking you. This kind of belief can be inaccurate or go too far. This is why highly angry people tend to be very paranoid. They see enemies all around them. They feel on edge due to this and have a hard time trusting other people. 

Therefore, all of us need to look at our perception of a situation or circumstance. If it is not accurate, we need to confront our distorted thinking in that context. This is one of the goals of many cognitive-behavioral anger management programs. To dive into one’s perceived notions and possible faulty thinking.   

Many mental health professionals are trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be used to investigate faulty thinking and confront unhelpful thinking patterns. Anyone who struggles with anger and does not know why or understands that distorted beliefs should reach out to such a professional. By reducing faulty thinking patterns, needless feelings of anger can be assuaged.