Anger management

Question 1

what is the aim of anger management?

Answer 1

• aim to change the way a prisoner thinks and therefore acts.
• a form of CBT,
• where the individual is taught how to recognise when they are losing control and encouraged to develop techniques which bring about conflict resolution without the need for violence.

Question 2

state the 3 stages of anger management:

Answer 2

1. cognitive preparation
2. skill acquisition
3. application practice

Question 3

what is cognitive preparation?

Answer 3

• The offender is encouraged to reflect on what has made them angry in their past.
• They learn what situations act as triggers
• therapist shows them that their response is irrational and helps to redefine the situations as non-threatening.

Question 4

what is skill acquisition?

Answer 4

• Offenders are taught how to control their own emotions, and taught skills and techniques to help deal with anger-provoking situations:
• Cognitive: positive self-talk to encourage calmness
• Behavioural: training in assertiveness to communicate more effectively
• Physiological: methods of relaxation and meditation

Question 5

what is the application process?

Answer 5

The new skills and techniques are practised using role play in which the therapist will try to provoke the offender.
- The therapist positively reinforces successful negotiation of the role play.

Question 6

keen et al 2000

Answer 6

studied the progress made in an anger management programme with young offenders aged 17-21.
- Offenders reported increased awareness of their difficulties with anger management and an increased capacity to implement self-control.