Managing Problematic Anger: The Development of a Treatment Program for Personality Disordered Patients in High Security

Abstract

Anger can present as a significant component in the expression of aggression and violence. Anger management is one therapeutic approach that has recorded some success in reducing levels of anger. However, there is a lack of studies that examine the efficacy of anger management with mentally disordered offenders. The present study reviews the development and implementation of an anger management program specifically designed for mentally disordered offenders in a high security setting. Eight male patients who exhibited aggressive behavior within the hospital and had a significant anger problem participated in a 36-week treatment program. The design of the program was successful in ensuring a low dropout rate. Patients were assessed in relation to the frequency and intensity of anger incidents and on a number of psychological variables. Repeated assessment showed positive changes on these measures both during the program and at follow-up. There was a significant reduction in both the frequency and intensity of anger incidents during treatment, which was maintained at 4-week follow-up. The findings are preliminary but encouraging in suggesting that both the style of the program and the evaluation strategy may be appropriate for aggressive mentally disordered offenders within high security settings.