Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson Reclaiming Anger: Trauma, Repression, and Healthy Protest with Elizabeth Ferreira
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Aug 4, 2025 Elizabeth Ferreira, an associate therapist with personal experience in CPTSD, uncovers the often misunderstood nature of anger. She discusses how trauma shapes our connection to this powerful emotion and the dangers of repressing it. Elizabeth offers insights on healthy expressions of anger as a means of protest and self-advocacy. The conversation also touches on the importance of boundaries in relationships and how understanding our desires can lead to emotional healing through playful exploration.
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Anger as a Primary Emotion
- Anger is a primary emotion essential for setting boundaries and protecting vulnerable parts.
- It drives healthy protest and advocacy, contrary to views that frame anger as secondary.
Anger Varies by Social Context
- Marginalized people often experience anger as a justified primary emotion, not a cover-up for sadness.
- Cultural norms shape whether anger is seen as defensive or authentic.
Trauma Shapes Anger Relationship
- People with developmental trauma often fear embracing anger due to trauma-linked danger.
- Childhood survival needs suppress healthy anger expression, making anger frightening in adulthood.