MEN, DAD, PARTNERS, DO YOU SEE THE SIGNS?

​Do you recognise the man you see in the mirror?

One emotion that most males are familiar with is anger.
Anger produces a physiological arousal in males. It creates a state of readiness and heightened awareness. It creates energy that can be directed outward in the form of protection or even as a weapon. Anger causes a fight or flight response designed to protect us. Anger is frequently a powerful tool for boys and men to use to cover inadequacies. Often anger in males is a secondary emotion used to cover underlying emotions such as fear, hurt, or frustration. You'll notice that nearly all males will react with anger when they become overly frustrated or are hurt emotionally.

The surge of adrenaline and associated arousal can be addictive to some males. Young males need to be taught how to deal with and control their anger. To do that, they must learn to own their anger and identify the source of that anger. Then they can learn how to choose to respond to their anger.

Emotions are powerful and often uncontrollable. That's why many males keep such a tight lid on their emotions - once released they are difficult to predict or control and often result in a situation ending in vulnerability. The one emotion, however, that they are relatively comfortable with, is that of anger. Anger for many men is an old friend; one they call upon in a variety of circumstances. Like all powerful emotions it can be used destructively or for good. Anger can be terribly destructive in relationships. All we need do is look at the devastation caused to women and children through a man's uncontrolled wrath and anger. Anger can lead to emotional, psychological, and even physical abuse.

On the other hand, anger can be channelled into productive pathways. Anger can be used to motivate a man to achieve more than he might otherwise be able to accomplish. It can be used as a mechanism to encourage perseverance under duress or in gruelling circumstances. 

Suppressed anger can be an underlying cause of anxiety and depression. Anger that is not appropriately expressed can disrupt relationships, affect thinking and behaviour patterns, and create a variety of physical problems. Long-term anger has been linked to health issues such as high blood pressure, heart problems, headaches, skin disorders, and digestive problems. In addition, anger can be linked to problems such as crime, emotional and physical abuse, and other violent behaviour.

Before anger becomes destructive, contact me on [email protected] or on 084 779 4889. Visit my website on www.nadinetherapy.co.za.
Credit: Psychologytoday, Menshealth, Guystuffcounselling, Webmd