Document Type : Review Article
Authors
1
Department Of Clinical Psychology, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj Branch, Sanandaj, Iran
2
Department Of Clinical Psychology, Islamic Azad University, Najafabad Branch, Isfahan, Iran
3
Department Of Family Counseling, Islamic Azad University, Ashkezar Branch, Yazd, Iran
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.
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