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Lesson 3: Introduction

If Someone is so Angry that they Could be Dangerous, Leave/Get Help

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Teacher Note: At the beginning of each video, there appears a screen that identifies the Program Module and Lesson number for the program to follow. Also included is a brief description of the content or behaviors being taught. In this case, "If someone is so angry that they could be dangerous Leave/Get Help” Leave/Get Help are in bold because they are the "key actions" being taught. You may use this information as an "Advanced Organizer" for yourself as well as your students.

Teacher Notes

This a very important lesson! So far we have talked about COOL responses to anger as an attempt to work out a problem. However, there is another COOL response that takes the form of avoiding or getting away from the angry person. It's important that your students be aware that they don't try to work things out with someone who is showing signs of "dangerous anger." When "dangerous anger" is present, they are COOL if they "Leave" and "Get Help."

Angry behavior becomes dangerous when it can result in physical injury to others. Throwing and hitting are the most common forms of dangerous angry behavior. Holding potentially dangerous objects, such as a knife or hammer, when engaging in angry talk, as well as obvious use of alcohol and drugs, are cues that the situation may be dangerous. Also, statements of intent to injure self or others is often a precursor to dangerous behavior.

Remind your students that they can speak privately with you, the school counselor, or an adult friend about any personal situations they may need help with.

Video Synopsis

The video portrays a situation in which Rachel is confronted with

"dangerous anger." Her Mom's ex-boyfriend, Greg, stops by for a visit and is obviously drunk. Rachel is COOL when she recognizes the signs of his dangerous anger and leaves.

Signs of dangerous anger include:

  • Pushing, hitting, or any physical abuse.
  • Holding objects that could be used as a weapon.
  • Unpredictable "crazy" behavior.
  • Obvious use of alcohol or drugs.

When someone is angry with you, and they are doing any of the above, if you feel you may get hurt, BeCool, "Leave" and "Get Help." Trust your own feelings if you are scared of someone. Do not feel you should try to handle it yourself. Nothing is worth putting your life in jeopardy!

Introduction

Before viewing the video, discuss the following. Paraphrase and adapt the questions and content to meet the ability level of your students.

In the last video about Amanda and Martha, what BeCool response did we learn to cope with someone who is so angry that they won't listen to us?

"Take A Break" and "Talk It Over" once someone has calmed down.

What are some things that someone could do while they were angry that might mean that they could be dangerous?

You may choose to discuss the signs of dangerous anger now or wait until Step 3: Guided Discussion

Video Introduction

Today we're also going to see another girl, Rachel, who faces someone who is very angry with her. Instead of suggesting "Taking A Break," she's going to "Leave and Get Help." Let's watch her be COLD, be HOT, and BeCool.

View Video (without stopping)

▶️ Start Video. Anger/Other, Part 3 - "Leave/Get Help"

Discussion

We just saw three ways to react to someone who is "dangerously angry." We can feel sorry for ourselves and withdraw. That's called being COLD. We can be mean and angry. That's called being HOT. Or, we can be COOL. Rachel was COOL when she recognized that Greg's anger was dangerous and she should "Leave and Get Help."