Observations on Adolescent Anger and an Anger Control Group in Residential and Day Treatment

Abstract

Learning about anger and its effects on self and others is an important aspect of treatment of the emotionally disturbed client. Adolescent boys in residential treatment have a variety of sources of anger, but few healthy ways of controlling and expressing this emotion. Maladaptive expressions of anger often lead to extended time in care or reinstitutionalization. A group setting using a variety of teaching and experiential modalities can offer helpful alternatives to habitual maladaptive expressions of anger. Emotional and learning disabilities must be factored into all teaching methods.