Venting does not help: Scientists suggests other ways to reduce anger

A recent study challenges the common belief that venting when you are angry can help release strong emotions. Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered that venting does not reduce anger and may even increase it in some cases.

The recent meta-analytic review, published in Clinical Psychology Review, concluded after analysing 154 studies on anger.

"I think it's really important to bust the myth that if you're angry you should blow off steam – get it off your chest," said Brad Bushman, senior author and communication scientist after the results were published in April, according to Science Alert.

"Venting anger might sound like a good idea, but there's not a shred of scientific evidence to support catharsis theory."

While venting does not help anger, it is still important to acknowledge and reflect on the emotions to feel validated and process them healthily. Some people turn to physical exercise to deal with anger. While it may offer health benefits, it may not improve the mood.

"To reduce anger, it is better to engage in activities that decrease arousal levels," Bushman said. "Despite what popular wisdom may suggest, even going for a run is not an effective strategy because it increases arousal levels and ends up being counterproductive."

Inspired by the "rage rooms" to pursue this study, first author Sophie Kjærvik, a communication scientist at Virginia Commonwealth University, wanted to debunk the theory of expressing anger to cope with it.

"We wanted to show that reducing arousal, and actually the physiological aspect of it, is really important," explained Kjærvik.

The team also focused on the cognitive aspects, examining cognitive behavioural therapy, which can be one way of defusing rage. However, they may not be effective for everyone.

Researchers analysed both arousal-increasing like boxing and jogging, and arousal-reducing activities like deep breathing and yoga. They found out that calming activities were effective in reducing anger.

"It was really interesting to see that progressive muscle relaxation and just relaxation in general might be as effective as approaches such as mindfulness and meditation," Kjærvik said.

It was discovered that arousal-boosting activities did not reduce anger, while some, like jogging, even increased it. Researchers suggest exertion may be more beneficial if the activity is fun like ball sports.

"It's really a battle because angry people want to vent, but our research shows that any good feeling we get from venting actually reinforces aggression," said Bushman.

While further study is needed to confirm these findings, researchers recommended calming techniques to be the best option to tone down temper.

(With inputs from agencies)