Study Reveals Venting Ineffective in Anger Management, Advocates Calming Techniques
Research involving over 10,000 participants finds that reducing physiological arousal, not venting, effectively manages anger.
- New research from Ohio State University involving over 10,000 participants debunks the effectiveness of venting in reducing anger, highlighting that it actually increases physiological arousal.
- Techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and counting to 10 have been proven more effective in lowering anger and aggression by reducing physiological arousal.
- Activities that typically increase arousal, like jogging, were found to worsen anger, while introducing playful elements in physical activities could help decrease arousal.
- The study emphasizes the importance of focusing on activities that calm the mind and body to effectively manage anger, rather than traditional methods of venting or expressing anger.
- Many of the effective techniques for managing anger, such as mindfulness and meditation, are accessible for free or at a low cost through apps or online videos.