When Anger Escalates
In certain situations, including the COVID pandemic, some people (Group A) attend to the advice of mainstream authorities, while others (Group B) get their information from different sources. Some members of Group A feel anger and contempt toward Group B because they think that they are stupid and, in the case of COVID, endangering others. Some members of Group B feel anger toward Group A because they think that these people, whom they see as “elites,” look down on them and want to take away their liberties.
Feeling anger can be comfortable, in a way, because it partially discharges and therefore lessens tension. You may recall situations in which it felt good to express your anger. But if it festers, it creates chronic discomfort, and so those who are angry are made uncomfortable not only by the issue that troubles them, but by the anger, itself.
Of the millions of people in each group, many don’t react with significant anger and don’t say much about an issue. But some (including many journalists and pundits in both Group A and Group B) make disparaging remarks about the other group, which is unhelpful because it heightens the conflict and causes the attacked group’s anger to escalate. A small minority of the members of each group become angry enough to physically confront, and occasionally physically harm, each other.
What can we do to contribute to the resolution of Group A vs. Group B conflicts?
In addition to trying to understand those we disagree with, we can refrain from making negative, disparaging comments in public venues. We can blow off steam, if we need to, privately with trusted friends; but elsewhere, we can contribute to lessening, rather than exacerbating, the discord. And that, in itself, will help us feel better.
How can you help yourself if you are one who is distressed by your anger?
If you are among those who react with significant anger because of past experiences that augment your response, you can use my complimentary Tool to gain moments of peace. And in Step 3, you can wish for a new mental pathway dedicated to resolving the issues that are augmenting your anger.
GET THE COMPLIMENTARY Tool
