Underlying Feelings Associated with Anger
Underlying Feelings Associated with Anger
Anger has been described as a secondary emotion, meaning that it results from
another, primary emotion which occurred first. Put simply, this means that the
feeling of anger may be masking an underlying feeling such as fear, hurt, or shame.
When we acknowledge that we are scared or hurt, we may feel vulnerable or weak.
Anger provides a way for us to feel more powerful. The problem with that,
however, is that anger can lead to aggression and other problematic behaviors.
Let’s look at a few scenarios that show how anger can be masking underlying
emotions: