Research note 02
Controlled experiments on venting anger found that it keeps anger active and increases aggression. This note reviews the evidence, its limits, and the regulation strategies that reduce anger instead.
Research note 12
Physical activity lifts positive affect for hours and, practised regularly, is associated with lower depression and anxiety in trials. This note reviews the meta-analyses, the role of intensity, and why exertion does not discharge anger.
Question 04
Controlled experiments and a meta-analysis of 154 studies found that arousal-raising activities do not reduce anger, while activities that lower arousal do. What that evidence covers and what it leaves open.
Question 02
Catharsis names a felt release after expression; venting names a behaviour, expressing anger at a target in the expectation that this reduces it. Why evidence about one does not settle the other.
Advice 01 · Meta-analytic
Cognitive reappraisal, reconsidering what a situation means, changes emotional experience more reliably than suppressing it or dwelling on it. How to practise it and when it is not the right tool.
Advice 12 · Meta-analytic
Moderate physical activity lifts positive affect for hours and, done regularly, is associated with fewer depressive and anxiety symptoms. Exertion does not discharge anger, so lower arousal first and keep exercise for mood.
Advice 02 · Replicated experimental
Hitting, shouting or ranting while focused on a provocation keeps anger active and increases aggression. Lowering arousal and gaining distance reduce anger without rehearsing it.