People become angry for a multitude of reasons that are often interrelated. Anger can arise for young people when:
- They are exposed to a physical threat
- Something valued is lost or destroyed (relationships and possessions)
- Their self-esteem and identity is threatened
- Injustice is experienced (including boundaries or rules being applied unfairly or inconsistently)
- They feel frustrated and confused
- They are experiencing uncomfortable physical states (eg: tiredness, hunger, headaches, withdrawal)
- They experience racism and discrimination
The expression of anger can also be a way for young people to communicate that they are:
- In a state of fear
- Frustrated
- Experiencing injustice
- Wanting to control a situation
- Experiencing pain (eg: withdrawal)
- Experiencing uncomfortable physical states (eg: tiredness, hunger, headaches)
