In a groundbreaking study, a team of Japanese researchers has introduced a unique method for managing anger: the act of writing down one’s reaction to a negative event on paper, then discarding it, has shown a significant decrease in anger. Lead researcher Nobuyuki Kawai was amazed at the effectiveness of this seemingly simple practice. This novel discovery has profound implications for both personal and professional anger management, offering a potential solution to the detrimental effects of uncontrolled anger.
The importance of this research is underscored by the need for empirical validation of many existing anger management techniques, which often prove challenging to implement during moments of heightened emotion. Published in Scientific Reports, the study represents the culmination of an extensive investigation into the correlation between written expression and anger reduction, building upon prior research that highlights the impact of physical actions on mood regulation.
In their experiment, Kawai and his graduate student, Yuta Kanaya, engaged participants in expressing brief opinions on significant social issues, only to subject them to harsh criticism from fictitious evaluators—intentionally provoking genuine emotional responses. Following negative feedback, participants were prompted to reflect on the emotional triggers caused by the criticism.
Participants were subsequently divided into two groups: one instructed to dispose of their written responses and the other to retain them. Disposal methods ranged from discarding the paper in a bin to shredding it. The results revealed a substantial contrast in anger levels between the two groups. Those who disposed of their written responses reported a swift return to baseline anger levels, while those who retained the documents experienced only marginal decreases in anger.
Lead researcher Kawai envisions practical uses for this research, particularly in high-stress environments such as the workplace. By encouraging individuals to write down the source of their anger, similar to taking a memo and promptly disposing of it, this technique offers a viable strategy for managing anger in real-time situations.
Aside from its practical implications, this discovery may shed light on the cultural practice of hakidashisara—a traditional Japanese ritual involving the symbolic release of anger. Held annually at the Hiyoshi shrine in Kiyosu, Aichi Prefecture, hakidashisara involves the symbolic smashing of small discs representing sources of rage. The similarities between this cultural tradition and the research findings suggest a shared mechanism for emotional release and relief, underscoring the cultural significance of this research.
This study by the Japanese research group sheds light on the therapeutic potential of expressive writing in anger management. This research offers a promising avenue for improving emotional well-being and interpersonal dynamics by demonstrating the effectiveness of a simple yet potent technique. Moreover, its cultural implications illuminate age-old practices of emotional catharsis, bridging the gap between scientific inquiry and cultural tradition.
More information: Yuta Kanaya et al, Anger is eliminated with the disposal of a paper written because of provocation, Scientific Reports. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57916-z
Journal information: Scientific Reports Provided by Nagoya University
