A simple laboratory method for inducing anger: A preliminary investigation

Tilmer O. Engebretson, Alan D. Sirota, Raymond S. Niaura, Kari Edwards, Walter A. Brown

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

To facilitate the experimental study of anger, we developed a simple laboratory method to induce anger. This anger induction (AI) is similar in format to the Velten Mood Induction Procedure for depression (VMIP-D), and involves reading descriptors of anger experience, recalling relevant personal memories, and evoking the mood suggested by the sentence/memory. We administered the AI and VMIP-D to 81 undergraduate men and women and collected mood ratings before, during, and after each mood induction. The AI exhibited good sensitivity and specificity in that it induced moderate to greater increases in anger (>1 SD change) in 68% of the sample, significant decreases in happiness, and minimal changes in other emotions. Mood responses to the AI and VMIP-D were influenced by gender and order of presentation. Uses and limitations of this method are discussed.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)13-26
Number of pages14
JournalJournal of Psychosomatic Research
Volume47
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 1999

Keywords

  • Anger
  • Depression
  • Gender
  • Mood induction

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Clinical Psychology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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