The act of smashing things to release anger can actually lead to an increase in anger and frustration, say reports.
Feeling bottled up with all the office stress and rage? You must have heard about the first Rage Room in Basavanagudi, Bengaluru.
Despite reports saying smashing things help people manage their anger issues, psychiatrists say it might have a negative impact.
The idea of rage room initially came out in Japan in the early 2000s, so that people can vent their anger in a safe manner. Since then, rage rooms have been a part of American culture. There have been many reports published on the positive impact of rage rooms on anger management. However, psychiatrists say that it has a negative impact.
As per a report published by the University of Michigan, smashing things may help you feel better because endorphins are released, but people get frustrated while dealing anger through aggressive actions. There is also an outdated Freudian catharsis model that has been promoted by therapists which encourages “getting it out.” But this model has been disproven repeatedly.
The Hindu reported that, in 2017, India had its first rage room in a cafe in Indore, followed by Hyderabad and Bengaluru.
The people can choose from a variety of plans at Bengaluru’s rage room ranging from Rs 99 to Rs 2,999. Although, protective equipment is given to people to protect them from physical injury, many researchers and psychologists have proven it to be more dangerous for people with anger issues.
Another study published by Iowa State University on ‘Does Venting Anger Feed or Extinguish the Flame? Catharsis, Rumination, Distraction, Anger and Aggressive Responding,’ said that the worst advice to give someone is telling them to imagine the face of the provocateur on pillow or punching bag as they hit it. However, the study further added that many pop psychologists advise people to control their anger.
Dr. Christopher Groot, an associate lecturer at the University of Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, in a report by Lifestyle Asia, said maladaptive things like smashing can help you feel good at the moment but are likely to be harmful in the longer term.“Emotions are something that needs occasional venting or catharsis and the notion that venting by smashing things is a healthy thing is not supported by science,” he added.
