By Suleiman Tajudeen
CITIZENS COMPASS—Anger is a strong emotion characterized by antagonism toward someone or something perceived to be the cause of a wrong or injury. It is a universal human emotion that can vary in intensity from mild irritation to intense rage.
Anger triggers:
Anger can be triggered by various factors, including:
Perceived injustice: Feeling treated unfairly or wronged.
Frustration: Being blocked from achieving a goal or facing obstacles.
Threats: Feeling threatened physically, emotionally, or psychologically.
Expression of anger
Anger can be expressed in different ways, including verbally, physically, or through behavior like withdrawal or passive-aggression.
Historical perspective
The history of anger in Nigeria is deeply rooted in the country’s socio-economic and political landscape. Once known as one of the happiest nations globally, Nigeria’s happiness ranking has significantly dropped due to rising poverty, insecurity, and unemployment. The World Happiness Report ranked Nigerians as the 6th happiest people in Africa and 95th globally; however, current conditions have shifted this narrative.
Historically, anger has been a universal human emotion, with various cultures around the world experiencing and expressing it differently. In Nigeria, anger has been fueled by factors like ethnic and religious conflicts, economic hardship, and governance issues.
Prevalence
A significant portion of people experiences anger due to:
Poverty and Unemployment: Studies reveal that about 86.9 million people are living in severe poverty and an unemployment rate of 33.3%, frustration levels are high.
Insecurity: Nigeria faces threats from Boko Haram and other armed groups, leading to fear and anger among citizens.
Governance Issues: Corruption and poor leadership have contributed to widespread discontent.
Cultural context: Anger expression is influenced by cultural norms.
Social issues: Economic and social challenges contribute to anger.
Family dynamics: Anger can affect family relationships.
Workplace challenges: Anger can impact productivity and workplace dynamics.
Mental health: Anger is linked to mental health issues in Nigeria.
Traditional practices: Some traditional practices may influence anger expression.
Urban vs. rural: Anger experiences may differ between urban and rural areas.
Education: Educating people about healthy anger management.
Community support: Community support systems can help manage anger.
Research opportunities: Research on anger in Nigeria can inform interventions.
Globally
Anger is a common emotional response to various stimuli, including social injustices, economic disparities, and personal struggles.
Research suggests that anger can be both a motivating and destructive force, depending on how it is managed and expressed.
The prevalence of anger globally is difficult to quantify, but its impact is evident in various forms of conflict, violence, and mental health issues.
Components of Anger
Cognitive component: Thoughts and perceptions that trigger anger.
Emotional component: The feeling of anger itself.
Physiological component: Physical responses like increased heart rate and blood pressure.
Behavioral component: Actions taken when angry, such as yelling or aggression.
Social component: Impact of anger on relationships and social interactions.
Environmental component: External factors that contribute to anger.
Personal component: Individual differences in anger expression.
Trigger component: Specific events or situations that trigger anger.
Intensity component: The level of anger experienced.
Duration component: How long anger lasts.
Frequency component: How often anger occurs.
Expression component: How anger is expressed.
Control component: Ability to manage and regulate anger.
Impact component: Effects of anger on daily life.
Contextual component: Cultural and situational context of anger.
Signs of anger
Increased heart rate: Physical response to anger.
Tension: Muscle tension or clenched fists.
Irritability: Feeling short-tempered or snappish.
Yelling or shouting: Verbal expressions of anger.
Aggression: Physical or verbal aggression towards others.
Withdrawal: Withdrawing from social interactions.
Ruminating thoughts: Dwelling on angry thoughts.
Physical symptoms: Headaches, stomach issues, or other physical symptoms.
Defensiveness: Becoming overly defensive.
Impulsivity: Acting impulsively without thinking.
Sarcasm: Using sarcasm to express anger.
Passive-aggression: Indirectly expressing anger.
Criticising others: Criticizing others excessively.
Blaming others: Shifting blame onto others.
Feeling resentful: Feeling resentful or bitter.
Factors contributing to anger
Economic hardship: Financial struggles and poverty can lead to feelings of frustration and anger.
Social injustices: Perceived or real injustices can fuel anger and motivate individuals to take action.
Governance issues: Poor leadership and corruption can contribute to widespread discontent and anger.
Cultural and historical contexts: Different cultures and historical experiences can …..
To be continued.
Dr. Suleiman Tajudeen is a Director, Clinical Psychology, LUTH (Retired) & CEO & Director of Clinical Psychology, Clear Mind Psychological Consult, km 15, Badagry Expressway Ojo, Lagos State.
He can be reached via:
+234 803 402 4457
