Anger: The HOT Response

The HOT (Aggressive) Response to Another's Anger

Aggressive or "HOT responses to anger usually involve angry behavior. Aggressive responses include:

HOT Appearance:

1. Head up, glaring stare, too much eye contact.
2. Tense posture, clenched fists, tight muscles.
3. Angry, challenging facial expressions.

HOT Thoughts or Self-Talk:

1. "If I'm calm, they won't listen to me."
2. "If I don't fight back, they'll be more angry."
3. "Others will think I'm a sissy if I don't fight back.
4. "Go ahead, make my day. "

HOT Behavior:

1. Arguing or denying, not listening.
2. Speaking with elevated voice volume.
3. Hostile voice tone.
4. Making derogatory or threatening statements, swearing.
5. Hitting, throwing, or breaking things.

Drawbacks of the HOT (Aggressive) Response

Drawbacks of aggressive responses to anger include increased anger or retaliation from the angry person; not leaming from experience; feelings of anger at self; and punishment from authority figures. Some satisfaction may be felt over the initial release of stress. However, the conflict is generally compounded by a HOT response and long-term goals are even less likely to be met.