A classic tool for understanding emotional outbursts
Anger is often the emotion people see first. Someone raises their voice, slams a door, argues with a partner, or explodes in frustration—and the situation gets labeled simply as “anger.” But anger is rarely the whole story....
A classic concept in counseling is the Anger Iceberg. Just like a real iceberg, only a small portion is visible above the water. Beneath the surface are many other emotions that often drive the anger in the first place. When these emotions build up, anger can become the emotion that finally breaks through the surface.
The “Identify Your Iceberg” Activity
Instead of just discussing the chart, ask group members:
“When you get angry, what emotions are usually underneath for you?”
Thank you so much, I am a substance abuse therapist and I can adapt most of these to my groups, much appreciated :0)