The relationship between anger and creative performance: a three-level meta-analysis

Abstract

ABSTRACT A substantial body of empirical research has focused on the interaction between creativity and mood, yet the results regarding the impact of anger on creative performance are notably varied. To clarify the overall relationship between the two, a three-level meta-analysis employing a random effects model was conducted. This analysis reviewed 115 effect sizes from 2,413 participants, revealing that anger is significantly positively correlated with creative performance (r = 0.184, 95% CI [0.111, 0.254]). The strength of this correlation was found to be moderated by the general and malevolent facets of creativity, as well as the procedures used for mood induction. Specifically, anger appears to enhance creative performance, particularly when it is elicited through imaginative processes and directed towards malevolent facet of creativity. However, the link between anger and creative performance was not influenced by the type of creative task used, the reported creative outcome, or the time limitation of the task. These findings contribute to refining the theoretical frameworks of mood and creativity and highlight the practical implications of utilising anger to moderate creative performance.