Healing the Angry Brain

February 27, 2012
Director of Wisconsin’s First Things First Counseling, Potter-Efron takes an extensive look at the neurology of controlling temper. In simple terms, this involves an intra-brain struggle between the amygdala (the brain’s “fight or flight” region) and the prefrontal cortex (responsible for rational thought). He delineates six stages, ranging from feeling offended to acting to getting feedback on one’s outburst, and guides readers through the mental patterns of those who are habitually rageful: “When someone says something nice to them, they hear it as neutral... something neutral, they hear... as negative... and... something that’s actually negative, they hear... as a total attack.” Potter-Efron (Angry All the Time) is most helpful in suggesting ways to “rewire” neural pathways, including becoming more aware of bodily changes when you’re angry and practicing deep breathing, muscle relaxation, and biofeedback. The process takes practice and patience; brain changes take six months to a year, Potter-Efron observes. In a fine concluding chapter, he discusses developing a greater sense of empathy and learning to practice forgiveness. Despite some minor organizational problems, this is a helpful work for laypeople struggling to hold their anger in check, though mental health practitioners should benefit from it as well.

February 15, 2012

Practicing therapist Potter-Efron (Rage: A Step-by-Step Guide to Overcoming Explosive Anger) examines the biochemical reasons why some people are wired for anger and more likely to fly into dangerous rages that leave them feeling out of control. He reviews the structure of the brain, the limbic system in particular, and details how it regulates anger in both helpful and detrimental ways. Potter-Efron delivers a measure of hope to people who accept that they can lose control but who also recognize that they can change their behavior and neural pathways to create a more balanced personality. Appendixes on medications round out the guidance. VERDICT Potter-Efron helps sufferers recognize unconscious anger activation, avoid conscious bad choices, and develop empathy. Of great use to those who realize they have such a problem.

Copyright 2012 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.