Chapter 8 Discussion

The answer to this question, for me, depends on the situation and the context of the angering event. If there is an issue that I have been keeping to myself for a long time and building frustration about in my head, I am more likely to blow up when the issue arises again. Also, if it is an issue that I feel strongly about, I am more likely to react with more emotion. I rarely express anger calmly, but when I do, it is usually in a situation regarding someone who I do not know very well or someone who is of authority. I feel that it is more difficult to express anger with someone who could form an opinion of me in that moment because they do not know me well enough, or someone who is in a position of power. Sometimes, I do not express anger at all when I feel that the situation is helpless and/or too overwhelming. If the issue is reoccurring, I sometimes get too mentally and emotionally exhausted with the topic that I shut down. Blowing up out of anger or not expressing anger at all usually makes the situation worse because nothing gets resolved. It is difficult to have a conversation when one or both parties are acting irrationally, or if the issue does not get addressed and is ignored. Reacting calmly can lead to a conversation where both parties can vent their frustrations and try to find a mutually beneficial resolution.