Am I made to be angry? One of my parents was so angry all of the time, I don’t want to be like that. I’ve heard anger is genetic, doesn’t that mean I will be like that too? Will my kids be angry if I am angry? People who struggle to control their anger frequently ask, ‘Is anger genetic?’ The answer is, it’s complicated. Both genetics and learned behavior play a role in determining whether or not someone may struggle to manage their anger. Additional external factors could also influence an individual’s ability to manage their anger effectively.

Is Anger Genetic?

According to Denson and his colleagues (2014), individuals who are genetically predisposed towards aggression, try harder to control their anger. However, the study also stated that individuals who are genetically predisposed to anger, also struggle to control the part of their brain that is in charge of emotions. This means that although anger itself cannot be genetically linked to others, it does show that self-control may have more of a genetic basis. Individuals with low self-control may struggle to act appropriately in various settings/situations leading to arguments or violence.

Does this mean that people with a predisposition for anger can’t overcome their anger?

No, individuals can still develop healthy coping skills and seek professional help to manage their anger effectively.  This process of developing healthy coping mechanisms can take time and practice for individuals to help improve their self-control in various settings. 

Are certain personality traits more prone to anger issues?

Yes, in some cases personality traits such as low agreeableness, extraversion and neuroticism can make certain individuals more susceptible to anger issues. This does not mean that people with these characteristics are more likely to be angry, but these characteristics do impact their ability to interact in situations.

Is Anger a Learned Behavior?

Although genetics play some role in the ability to self-control, there is also additional environmental factors. For example, in childhood if you witness angry behaviors within the family or within their house, you will observe them and begin to repeat them as you get older – because you don’t know better. Individuals who see anger and aggression at a young age struggle to know healthy and effective coping skills or de-escalation techniques – as they were not demonstrated in their childhood. Thus, not an option for an individual to learn and use later on in life.

How to Control Anger (regardless of genetics and learned behavior)

1. Recognize your triggers
2. Go for a walk
3. Think before speaking (5 second rule)
4. Change your way of thinking with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
5. Educate yourself on positive coping skills and de-escalation techniques to help manage your anger
6. Anger Management therapy

Anger is a normal emotion to feel, it does serve a purpose in helping individuals navigate the world they live in. However, some individuals struggle to control their anger and self-control. If you find yourself wanting to get more help and support, please look into anger management counseling.

Written by Abbigail Rinard, MS, Doctoral Candidate and Clinical Supervisor.

References: 

Denson, T.F., Dobson-Stone, C.,  Ronay, R., von Hippel, W., & Schira, M.M. (2014). A functional polymorphism of the MAOA gene is associated with neural responses to induced anger control. Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, 26(7), 1418-1427.