Teen anger management

You are sure to get angry sometimes, everyone does! Anger is a normal emotion and there is nothing wrong with being angry. What matters is how you handle it and what we do when we are angry. Anger can lead to dangerous situations unless you learn to recognise and manage it.

To manage anger safely you need self-awareness and self control. Self awareness is the ability to notice what you are feeling and thinking and to work out why. Self control is about thinking before you act, and making a choice.


Steps to managing anger

1. Work out why you are angry – put it into words so you can act rather than react - "I feel angry because…"

2. Think of possible options before you act. Maybe you could yell and shout - but would it be helpful? You sneak out if mum says you can't go somewhere. Maybe you could work out what she would like you to do, so that she will then help you to get what you want.

3. Think through what might happen next. Yelling at mum might mean you are grounded for a week. Sneaking out might mean she won't trust you again. Doing what she wants might mean she will do something extra for you.

4. Make a decision about which one of your options is the best choice, and act. Use a quiet voice to tell what you are feeling. Most importantly, if anger becomes too much then walk away from the situation until you are back in control again.

5. Think about whether this worked and why. Would you do the same again?


If anger has become a real problem in your life, you may want to visit a counsellor as they can help you explore personal issues that help you to stay angry most of the time.