Anger regulation deficits in combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder.
We describe a typology of regulatory deficits associated with anger in combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Cognitive, arousal, and behavioral domain deficits in anger regulation were observed clinically in PTSD patients with high levels of anger who were participating in a multi-year trial of a structured anger treatment. We also describe a category of patients whose anger type we have termed "ball of rage." These patients exhibit regulatory deficits in all three domains of anger regulation. We offer a conceptual framework to advance the understanding of anger associated with PTSD and to guide its effective treatment.
Chemtob
C M
CM
Department of Veterans Affairs, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813, USA.
Novaco
R W
RW
Hamada
R S
RS
Gross
D M
DM
Smith
G
G
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000786:Anger; D001143:Arousal; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D003130:Combat Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008960:Models, Psychological; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D014728:Veterans / Q000523:psychology*