Which is first, anger or fear?
Have you ever seen hair stand this much on end or a cat on its' tiptoes so elegantly? Look at those eyes!
You'd have to work hard?not?to see this tiny kitten trying to be very big.
Oh, I have spent so much time like this! I had such an attitude. I acted like I was a ten-foot-tall two-ton Tessie on a tear. I still can.
The alt text for this image is "angry, scared cat," which is a great description.
My question is this: Which was first, the anger or the fear?
When you think about fight (anger) or flight (fear) as natural responses to threat, it may not matter much. I think it only matters if you're small (like a kitten), unable to run away, or for some other reason can't take flight.
If I'm terrified and can't see any opportunity to resolve my terror, the only emotion I have left to go to is... anger. What would change if you responded to me as if I were afraid instead of as if I am angry?
Behavioral Consultant w/ Cheatham County Schools
3 年Fear. That’s what causes the anger.
Licensed Professional Counselor (PA) and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor
3 年The anger comes to set and/or maintain a boundary I think. “Don’t cross here or come closer.” Imagine if the response was “I’m staying way over here, I see you are scared, and I’m here to help when you feel safe.” Or “help you find safety.”