State–Trait Anger Theory and the utility of the Trait Anger Scale.

Eight studies present support for the state–trait anger theory. In Studies 1–3, high-anger participants reported (a) greater anger in many different provocations, in their most angering ongoing situations, and in daily life, (b) greater anger-related physiological arousal, (c) greater state anger and dysfunctional coping in response to a visualized provocation, and (d) greater use of suppression and outward negative expression of anger. Only heart rate in the visualized provocation did not support predictions. In Studies 4–5, high-anger individuals suffered more frequent and intense anger consequences. In Studies 6–8, trait anger had higher correlations with dimensions of anger than with other emotions, cognitions, and behaviors. Few gender differences were found across studies. Results were discussed in terms of state–trait theory, convergent and discriminant validity for the Trait Anger Scale, anger expression, gender, and the implications for counseling. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)