Psychologist's Advice: Can "Fear" Control Aggressive Behavior? How Effective is it Really?

Report: Udhav Krishna/Patna

Anger is a normal and natural emotion, a part of every human’s life. However, when anger spirals out of control, it can become dangerous not only for the individual but also for those around them. Managing anger, particularly in teenagers, has become a growing challenge in today's society.

Hormonal Changes and Anger

Due to rapid physical development and hormonal changes, many teenagers find themselves in situations where they resort to unhealthy ways of expressing their anger. The physical and emotional transitions during adolescence can amplify feelings of frustration and confusion.

Adolescence: A Period of Conflict

Adolescence is a time when significant physical and psychological changes occur. During this phase, interpersonal (between individuals) and intrapersonal (within oneself) conflicts increase. Teenagers often struggle with understanding which direction they should take and whom they should listen to. For them, their "identity" becomes the most crucial thing, leading them to resist acknowledging their mistakes.

What Experts Say

Dr. Pranay Kumar Gupta, an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology and a trained Clinical Psychologist from the Central Institute of Psychiatry, Kanke, Ranchi, with 28 years of experience, explains, "Teenagers often perceive themselves as always right and others as wrong. They believe their perspective is the only correct one. In such situations, attempting to control their anger through fear or other external means can backfire. There is a complex relationship between anger and fear, and using fear to control anger often leads to only temporary results."

Better Ways to Control Anger

According to Dr. Gupta, the most effective way to control anger is through communication and counseling. When teenagers are engaged in the right kind of conversation, they are better able to understand their emotions and control their aggression.

1. The Importance of Counseling: Counseling serves as an essential tool for addressing the issues teenagers face. Through counseling, they can express their emotions and problems in a safe space, receiving proper guidance to help them manage their anger effectively.

2. The Role of Joint Family Support: Having a strong family support system is crucial for teenagers. If all family members make an effort to understand the teenager’s anger and communicate with them patiently, it can help the child gain control over their emotions.

3. Sports and Creative Activities: Involving teenagers in creative activities or sports can also be an effective way to channel their negative energy positively. It helps distract them from their frustrations and directs their energy towards constructive outcomes.

What to Do in an Emergency?

There are situations when teenagers lose control and become destructive, breaking things in their anger. In such cases, it is essential for family members and the community to remain alert and take preventive measures. If the teenager is unable to regain control, certain emergency steps can be taken.

Case 01: If the teenager calms down after breaking or damaging things, family members can intervene and provide emotional support. They can explain, with love and patience, why the teenager’s behavior was wrong. If the teenager acknowledges their mistake, it can be a step in the right direction.

Case 02: If the teenager does not calm down, help can be sought from the police department. Calling emergency number 112 can provide immediate assistance. The police are trained to handle such situations and can engage with the teenager in a calm, rational manner to defuse the situation. Recently in Bihar, there was a case where Dial 112 was called, and a teenager who had locked himself in a room was counseled by the authorities, helping him find a peaceful resolution.

The Relationship Between Fear and Anger

Many believe that fear can be used as a tool to calm someone down. However, experts argue that fear is only a temporary solution and does not provide long-term benefits. Using fear or threats can sometimes escalate aggression in teenagers. Instead of intimidation, they need understanding, active listening, and proper guidance.

So, the best way to control anger is through open dialogue and empathy. Spending time with teenagers, understanding their problems, and providing emotional support is essential. While fear and threats may offer short-term solutions, counseling and positive communication lead to lasting outcomes, helping teenagers manage their anger more effectively.