Triggers
Name one internal and one external trigger for anger.
Internal trigger: Feeling disrespected.
External trigger: Someone calling you a name.
Name two body cues that tell you you’re getting angry.
Body cues: Clenched fists, fast heartbeat, tense muscles, clenched teeth, flushed skin, sweating, fast breathing.
What's the first step in the anger cycle?
Trigger.
What’s an appropriate way to express disagreement?
Use “I” statements: “I feel frustrated when I don’t get a turn.
What’s one consequence of acting on impulse?
You might hurt someone or get in trouble if you don’t stop to think.
True or False: Being ignored is an external trigger.
True. Being ignored is an external trigger because it comes from the environment.
What emotion is often hidden under anger?
Sadness, fear, or embarrassment are often hidden beneath anger.
What stage of the anger cycle involves physical signs like clenched fists, racing heart, or pacing?
Escalation.
What does active listening look like?
Facing the speaker, not interrupting, nodding or giving feedback like “I hear you.”
True or False: Doing the right thing is always the easiest choice.
False.
Describe a situation where a trigger led to an outburst.
Many answers accepted. Example response: “I was triggered when my teacher called me out in front of the class. I felt embarrassed and snapped at her.”
Draw or describe what anger feels like in your body.
Example response : “Anger feels like my face gets hot, my chest tightens, and I want to scream.”
What tool shows your level of anger from 1 (calm) to 10 (about to explode)?
An anger thermometer.
A peer cuts you in line, how do you respond assertively?
I’d say, ‘Hey, I was already here. Please don’t cut.’ (Assertive tone, calm voice)
What does it mean to “take responsibility” for your actions?
You admit what you did and try to fix it.
Which of the following internal triggers could lead someone to overreact, even if no one else notices it?
A) Feeling left out
B) Someone pushing you
C) A teacher taking your phone
A) Feeling left out
Which of these thoughts is most likely to increase anger during a conflict?
A) “They’re trying to embarrass me on purpose.”
B) “Maybe I’m overreacting, but I still feel hurt.”
C) “I’ll just ignore it and move on.”
A) “They’re trying to embarrass me on purpose.”
What are the five stages of the anger cycle, in order?
Trigger, Escalation, Crisis, Recovery, Calm
What is the first step when giving a genuine apology?
Admit what you did wrong.
Should you always follow the rules? What if a rule is unfair?
Example response: “Not always. Some rules are unfair, like when only certain people get punished. But I’d still try to talk about it the right way.”
Why is it important to recognize your triggers before you're in the escalation phase?
A) So you can tell others what to avoid
B) So you can use coping skills early and avoid a meltdown
C) So you have time to explain your feelings later
B) So you can use coping skills early and avoid a meltdown
Describe the difference between an emotion and a reaction.
Emotion = what you feel (e.g., hurt).
Reaction = what you do (e.g., slam the door).
What are two things an anger log can help you track?
Triggers and coping skills that worked or didn’t.
What should you do if someone gives you feedback you don’t like?
Stay calm, listen, and think before responding.
What is integrity?
Doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.