Anger in the Workplace

Course overview

Anger in the workplace is very common and that is not surprising in our fast-paced world. Our work environments are often hectic with deadlines to meet, and often inadequate staff to complete daily tasks. These conditions can lead to feelings of frustration and a loss of control. The requirements of the job do not always match the capabilities, resources, or needs of the workforce. Most everyone feels angry at times; it's part of being human. Anger is a normal, healthy emotion, which we might experience if we feel attacked, deceived, or treated unfairly. Anger can even be beneficial at times. Feeling angry about something can help us identify problems or things that are hurting us, motivate us to create change, achieve our goals, or even move on. Our fight or flight system helps us stay safe and defend ourselves in dangerous situations. When stress becomes a chronic issue or reaches a certain level, the ability to cope becomes more difficult and often leads to anger or even verbal or physical outbursts. This is not a healthy form of anger.