Anger expression and suppression at work: causes, characteristics and predictors. Issue 3 (12th June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Booth, Jill; Ireland, Jane L.; Mann, Sandi; Eslea, Mike; Holyoak, Lynda
• Is Part Of: International journal of conflict management. Volume 28:Issue 3(2017)
• Page Start: 368
• Page End: 382
• Publication Date: 2017-06-12
• Subjects: Emotional labour -- Affective Events Theory -- Event-contingent method -- Workplace anger; Conflict management -- Periodicals; Industrial relations -- Periodicals; Negotiation -- Periodicals; Social conflict -- Periodicals; Diplomatic negotiations in international disputes -- Periodicals; 303.6905
• DOI: 10.1108/IJCMA-06-2016-0044
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1044-4068

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: This study aims to explore the causes, characteristics and consequences of workplace anger expression and suppression, with an additional aim of testing the emotional dimension of Affective Events Theory. Design/methodology/approach: Participants ( n = 187) from management and non-management positions completed an event-contingent anger diary over a period of four working weeks, alongside measures on trait anger and job satisfaction. Findings: Over 50 per cent of the sample disclosed anger-causing events. In keeping with Affective Events Theory, disposition was important, with trait anger higher in those disclosing anger-causing events. There appeared a range of factors predicting the expression of anger, with these focused primarily on individual issues and pre-existing emotion rather than work characteristics. Originality/value: Through consideration of management and non-management workers and by using a longitudinal design, the study highlights the importance of individual factors in understanding workplace anger. It notes the value in focusing on discrete emotion. The findings offer a clear direction for future research that could assist with enhancing models of workplace emotion, particularly if the aim is to account for discrete emotions.