Majid Ali, M.D.

Anger Is Violations of One’s Boundaries

Angry animals bare their teeth when they can. We humans often tight “inner teeth” that only hurt us within. I am told that anger is a strong physical response to real or imagined provocation. That seems to make sense also.

My sense is that anger is our defense against our violated boundaries. This view of anger appeals to me for a practical reason: if anger is triggered by invaded boundaries, would it still occur if there were no boundaries?

n’t I 

when our personal boundaries are invaded.

people I see 

. It is a normal emotion that involves a strong uncomfortable and emotional response to a perceived provocation. Often it indicates when one’s basic boundaries are violated. Some have a learned tendency to react to anger through retaliation. Anger may be utilized effectively by setting boundaries or escaping from dangerous situations. Sheila Videbeck describes anger as a normal emotion that involves a strong uncomfortable and emotional response to a perceived provocation