Why Some People Get Madder than Others

Dr. Maurice Prout, a professor of clinical psychology at Widener University, has devoted his professional life to teaching about various aspects of psychology, ranging from mood disorders to posttraumatic stress syndrome. Maurice Prout also maintains an academic and clinical interest in anger.

Why do some people display their anger more than others? One psychologist acknowledges that some individuals blow up more easily and with greater intensity than the average person. Others do not express their anger dramatically but instead become habitually moody or irritable. Other reactions may include social withdrawal or physical illness.

Easily angered people do not tolerate frustration well; they believe they shouldn't have to endure inconvenience. Situations that involve perceived injustice, such as criticism for small errors, can also trigger strong anger.

Research into underlying causes of poor anger management indicates that some children are born touchy and irritable. Another factor is related to culture; in some, it is more acceptable to show anxiety or depression than it is to express anger. This hinders teaching people to divert anger in constructive ways. Family dynamics also play a part. People who are easily angered often come from backgrounds of chaos and miscommunication