Understanding the Psychology Behind Bad Tempered Behavior: Why Do People Behave Like That?

Have you ever encountered a person who consistently loses their temper over minor issues? Understanding the psychology behind bad tempered behavior can provide insights into why some individuals react so rigidly and emotionally.

Artistic Temperament

For artists and sensitive creatives, the world can be a delicate balance, much like a butterfly. A single trigger can set them off, especially when they are perfectionists. This phenomenon is often referred to as an 'Artistic Temperament.' Highly sensitive individuals often struggle with small irritations, leading to disproportionate reactions. This can sometimes be attributed to their deep emotional connections and a need for control and perfection in their work and life.

Men and Anger: A Yen to Control

The way men express anger differs from that of women. It's important to note that individuals, both men and women, who frequently lose their temper may not have learned effective anger management techniques. According to statistical data, approximately 90% of people in jail are men. This high incidence has been linked to a lack of skill in controlling and managing anger, often fueled by a misguided belief that losing one's temper is a sign of masculinity.

Psychiatrists often explain that people who lose their temper lack insight into their condition, meaning they do not fully understand their own emotional limits. This lack of self-awareness has been scrutinized by experts like former Professor of Psychiatry, Thomas Szasz (1920–2012), who posited that this lack of self-knowledge could be indicative of a more severe mental health issue.

The Flight or Fight Response: A Biological Perspective

The flight or fight response is a physiological reaction that occurs when a person perceives a threat or overwhelming situation. When faced with emotional overload, individuals can either fight back (seek a resolution) or flee (avoid the problem temporarily). This response is deeply rooted in our evolutionary history. Children who witness adults expressing anger through modeling and observation are more likely to adopt similar behaviors when confronted with stress. Thus, the way we react in the face of emotional challenges is shaped by what we've seen in our formative years as we learned to solve problems.

Psychological and Emotional Reactions

Loss of temper can often be attributed to unconscious emotional frustrations. When something does not go as one has planned, it can lead to a buildup of frustration, which is then released through temper. This frustration might be linked to failure in a personal or professional setting, forcing individuals to find an outlet for their negative emotions.

Psychologically, losing one’s temper is a losing situation. In contrast, mastering the ability to remain calm and composed is seen as a winning approach. It is essential, however, to develop healthy coping mechanisms to navigate these situations. An effective personal strategy is to view the situation from a different perspective. While it's advisable to avoid revealing this approach to others, it can be a powerful, private tool for managing one's reactions.

By understanding the underlying psychological and emotional factors driving bad tempered behavior, we can enhance our ability to manage our own reactions and support others in doing the same.