Physical, verbal and relational aggression: The role of anger management strategies

Identifying adaptive and maladaptive anger management strategies is an important component in violence prevention programs. However, little attention has been paid to examining their influence in minimizing physical, verbal, and romantic relational aggression. This study examined the association between anger, anger management strategies, and different forms of aggression, specifically general physical and verbal aggression towards others and romantic relational aggression. Participants (N=237; 39.4% males), aged between 19-78 years, (M=33.74, SD=12.92) were assessed using self-reports. Results indicated that elevated levels of anger were a risk factor for displaying physical, verbal, and romantic relational aggression but anger management strategies only had an impact on romantic relational aggression, not physical or verbal aggression. Prevention and intervention programs should first identify the form of aggression displayed and tailor the intervention based on the anger management strategies that are effective. For romantic relational aggression specific anger management strategies (escalating, negative attribution) should be targeted.