How to Teach Anger Management Classes

Anger management classes teach participants ways to manage their anger in a more effective way. American Psychological Association defines anger as a normally occurring emotion that can cause significant impairments in relationships, work productivity and personal functioning if uncontrolled. Typically anger management classes are taught at community mental health centers, but may be taught in churches, schools and rehabilitation programs. They are also typically conducted in groups, but may be individually taught as well.

Things You'll Need

• Anger management workbooks
• Teaching aids (as required)

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Instructions

• 1

  Choose an anger management program. Most programs contain workbooks and a teaching manual, but some may also include handouts, videos or other supplemental materials. Most programs and workbooks cover the same basic material, but differ in their approach. Some programs are spiritually based while others put emphasis on relaxation or skill building. Also consider if the class will target young people or adults, as some material for adults is not appropriate for children and adolescents. While most anger management resources are appropriate for either men or women, there are some gender specific programs available. Research available programs that include the information that is appropriate for the setting and are within budget. Online booksellers have a variety of manuals and workbooks to choose from and provide summaries and reviews to help group leaders find the resources appropriate for the group.

• 2

  Determine the number of participants. Groups like this typically have six to ten participants. This number allows for ample group participation and discussion.

• 3

  Meet with participants individually, if possible, to summarize the goals and objectives of the group. Address the goals of individual participants, as well. This allows the participants to have realistic expectations of the group process and outcome. This also allows the group leader to learn more about the participants and what led to their referral to this group. This is also a time to determine if the individual is an appropriate group participant or if a referral for individual counseling is appropriate. Some candidates may be too volatile for a group setting, while others may be too uncomfortable in group settings, such as individuals who have social anxiety.

• 4

  Determine if this will be an open or closed group. Open groups allow new members to join at any time, and allows members to "graduate" whenever they have completed the class objectives or all of the assignments in the workbook. Closed groups contain the same members throughout and do not allow new members to join once the class has begun.

• 5

  Instruct members to introduce themselves at the first meeting, or any time a new member joins. Allow them to give a little personal information, but avoid lengthy histories to allow enough time to complete the day's objectives. The group leader should also introduce himself and provide a brief summary of work experience or some personal information. This is also an appropriate time to again summarize the objectives and expected outcomes for the class.

• 6

  Provide the information on managing anger, typically beginning with anger warning signs. Most anger management classes last six weeks, but this may vary. Some programs may suggest a lecture type class in which the leader provides information and requests class participation. Role-playing activities may be appropriate in certain situations. Allowing participants to recount personal examples of course material is also appropriate on a limited basis, as this is a group setting rather than an individual session. Discussion of thoughts and feelings related to the topic is also encouraged. Members may take turns reading from the workbook or handouts. They may also read aloud the answers to homework assignments and receive feedback from peers in the group. By the end of the course, group members should be able to complete an individualized plan for how to manage their anger given a range of situations and must have completed all assignments.

• 7

  Acknowledge accomplishments. When members graduate from the group, provide them with a certificate of completion and acknowledge their accomplishments before the group. If appropriate, allow the graduating member to bring a close friend or family member to the final class. If this is a closed group and all members are graduating together, a simple graduation ceremony or celebration may be appropriate.