Anger Management Class- The First Step

In a recent anger management class we discussed the practical use of anger management tools taught during the course. Many students felt uncomfortable utilizing the anger reduction and prevention techniques discussed in the class because they thought they would be ineffective or produce a negative response from others. When asked if they had attempted to perform any of the techniques the majority of the class reported that they had not.

Often when we are introduced to a new behavior or way of doing something there is a bit of hesitation that accompanies the thought. For example, when I was introduced to the concept of riding a two-wheel bike without training wheels attached, I felt reluctance with attempting the two wheel ride; mainly because I had grown accustomed to riding the bike a certain way (with training wheels).

Modifying or replacing a previously learned behavior often is accompanied with even more reluctance than learning new behavior. Typically individuals that struggle with managing anger have been handling it in the same manner for an extended amount of time and the thought of doing it differently feels daunting; actually attempting it can be even more off-putting. I often explain that the hardest step is the first one; you must attempt the techniques to master them. Due to the long history of consistent behavior that we are attempting to modify it may be a struggle at first and there will be missteps along the way. Successful anger management takes a strong commitment, plenty of time and repeated attempts—but you do have take the first step by giving the alternative a try.

Stacy H. Price, M.A., MFTI
Daybreak Counseling Service
www.daybreakservices.com
twitter.com/angryinla
Like us on FACEBOOK
855- NO ANGER
855- 662-6437