Anger groups are usually straight forward …. OK, no group is like that. They each have their own dynamics which are dependent on many factors.

I used to work as a float at a hospital and would walk onto a unit to facilitate a group of (usually) adults with a mix of diagnoses none of whom I had ever met before. In those situations I usually keep it very basic and thus very safe.

The list of words below was generated over a few years of asking folks in groups,’what are your angry words’. I have not included the usual assortment of curse words but there were quite a few favorites in the uncensored list.

If a group is not very talkative, this list is a good way to start the conversation. I might ask folks to circle 6 words that most express their typical (or specific) anger. We then share, or if in a larger group have folks share with a partner.

ANGER WORDS
anger disgust grumpiness rage
aggravation dislike hate resentment

agitation envy hostility revulsion
annoyance exasperation irritation scorn
bitterness ferocity jealousy spite
contempt frustration loathing torment

cruelty fury mean-spiritedness vengefulness
destructiveness grouchiness outrage wrath
add your own …..