The teenage years can be a turbulent period for both parents and children. This is a period of rapid changes in the life of teenagers. One of the problems that can arise are angry outbursts. Anger is a normal human emotion, but the way one responds to anger can be abnormal.
Unhealthy expressions of anger in teenagers can be detrimental to not just their overall health, but also their future. It can also affect family dynamics. If you are a parent with a teenager who sees their teen struggling with a healthy control of anger, you may want to look into anger management.
This article talks about anger management for parents and discusses why balancing discipline and understanding is critical during this period. We will also recommend where to get high-quality anger management services for your teen.
What is Anger Management? Does My Teen Need It?
Anger management is a therapeutic approach aimed at helping an individual process and express their anger in a healthier and more constructive way.
A mental health professional teaches techniques for the following:
- Recognizing triggers
- Managing stress
- Regulating emotions
- Responding to anger in a non-destructive manner
If not properly managed, anger can destroy lives and prevent your teen from experiencing happiness. In a lot of cases, extreme responses to anger are indicative of mental health issues. An evaluation by a mental health professional is important.
Signs that your teen may be struggling with anger issues include:
- Frequent and intense outbursts of anger that are disproportionate to the situation
- Difficulty managing frustration and reacting explosively to minor setbacks
- Physical symptoms like increased heart rate and tense muscles during episodes of anger
- Impulsive behavior and acting without considering the consequences of their actions
- Withdrawal from social interactions and isolating themselves from friends and family
- Persistent negative mindset, perceiving situations as hostile or threatening
- Academic difficulties and disciplinary problems at school
- Strained relationships with their peers and authority figures, including parents
Through anger management, teens can develop coping strategies and gain a deeper understanding of the underlying causes of their anger. The goal is to prevent negative short and long-term consequences of uncontrolled anger.
What Happens During Anger Management?
Anger management sessions usually focus on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which involves efforts to change negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
A mental health professional can guide your teen through the following:
● Identifying triggers
Cognitive behavioral therapy helps teens recognize the specific situations, thoughts, or emotions that trigger their anger. By identifying these triggers, they can develop strategies to manage them effectively.
● Challenging negative thoughts
Teens learn to identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to their anger. CBT helps them reframe their thoughts and develop more balanced and realistic perspectives.
● Emotion regulation skills
Cognitive behavioral therapy teaches teens various techniques to regulate their emotions, such as deep breathing exercises and mindfulness practices. These skills help them manage their anger in healthier ways.
● Problem-solving skills
Teens acquire problem-solving skills through cognitive behavioral therapy, enabling them to find constructive solutions to conflicts or frustrations rather than resorting to anger. They learn to approach situations with a rational and calm mindset.
● Communication skills
Cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on improving communication skills, teaching teens effective ways to express their needs and concerns without aggression. They learn active listening, assertiveness, and conflict resolution techniques.
● Coping strategies
CBT equips teens with a toolbox of coping strategies to deal with anger-provoking situations. This may include self-soothing techniques or engaging in activities that promote relaxation and lowering stress.
Why Parents Should Balance Discipline with Understanding
The teenage years are a critical junction in a child’s life. Parents can balance discipline and understanding when dealing with teens with anger issues by setting clear boundaries and expectations, while also providing emotional support and empathy for their child.
As a parent, you play a significant role in your child’s life and ability to manage their anger in healthy ways. You can be involved in teaching healthy coping skills and demonstrating appropriate ways to express anger.
A mental health professional experienced in anger management for teens can provide additional strategies and guidance tailored to your teen’s unique needs.
Anger Management in Sherman, TX
The qualified mental health professionals at Carrus Cares Frisco can help your teen develop healthier ways to express anger and safeguard their health and future. Our anger management services are outpatient programs that we can tailor according to your needs.
Unlike other behavioral health facilities, we cultivate a faith-based environment, which helps teens build a strong foundation for life. Faith can guide a teen’s perspective on anger, and prayer can support a sense of calmness during moments of anger.
For any questions or to schedule an appointment with our anger management specialist, call our office today at (903) 870-1222. Our team of friendly professionals are eager to help you.
