A Comprehensive Review of Theoretical Models and Behavioral Interventions for Anger Management
https://doi.org/10.22034/hssr.2025.236910
Maryam Amiri, Reyhane Tajadod, Parisa Daneshi Moghadam
Abstract Background: Dysregulated anger presents a significant public health concern, linked to interpersonal violence, cardiovascular morbidity, and a range of psychiatric disorders. Effective intervention requires a firm grounding in evolving psychological models and empirical evidence.
Objective: This review aims to synthesize contemporary theoretical models of anger etiology and evaluate the efficacy of first-, second-, and third-wave behavioral therapy interventions.
Methods: A narrative review methodology was employed. Peer-reviewed articles, seminal texts, and meta-analyses published between 1975-2025 were identified via PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar using keywords including "anger management," "cognitive-behavioral therapy," "aggression," and "mindfulness." Theoretical and intervention studies were selected for their influence and methodological rigor.
Results: The state-trait, cognitive-neoassociationistic, and general aggression models provide robust, complementary frameworks for understanding anger. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) remains the most empirically supported intervention, with meta-analyses demonstrating moderate-to-large effect sizes (e.g., g = 0.71). Third-wave acceptance- and mindfulness-based approaches (e.g., ACT, DBT) show growing empirical support for enhancing emotional regulation and addressing experiential avoidance, a core maintenance factor.
Conclusion: While CBT is the gold standard, integrative treatment tailoring specific techniques (e.g., cognitive restructuring, exposure, mindfulness) to individual functional assessments is advocated. Future research must focus on mechanisms of change, long-term outcomes, and culturally adapted applications to optimize treatment efficacy and accessibility.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Related Psychological Interventions for Anxiety and Depression in Advanced Cancer: A Narrative Review
https://doi.org/10.22034/hssr.2025.560793.1020
Priya Priyadarshini
Abstract Objective
This review aims to consolidate current knowledge on the effectiveness of CBT and related therapeutic approaches for addressing anxiety and depression in people with advanced cancer.
Methods
A narrative review method was adopted to integrate findings from various sources, including systematic reviews, randomized trials, pilot studies, and research protocols, all examining CBT, mindfulness-based practices, and other forms of psychotherapy within advanced cancer populations.
Results
Findings suggest that CBT and similar interventions can provide meaningful relief from anxiety and depressive symptoms, though the degree of benefit varies. Mindfulness-based approaches appear particularly helpful in promoting a sense of existential well-being and supporting caregivers. Some structured CBT programs have not demonstrated consistent benefits across all patient groups, with improvements often observed in specific subpopulations. Overall, broader psychotherapeutic approaches indicate the potential for moderate symptom reduction, but evidence remains limited. Newer approaches, such as behavioural activation, are currently under study and may offer alternative options.
Conclusion
Psychological therapies, including CBT, show important but variable effects in managing anxiety and depression in individuals with advanced cancer. Interventions that are tailored to individual patient characteristics, levels of distress, and situational needs may be more effective. Continued research through well-designed, focused trials is essential to better understand how these therapies can be optimized in this population.