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BMC Public Health
Published in: BMC Public Health 1/2020

Open Access 01-12-2020 | Research article

Magnitude of problematic anger and its predictors in the Millennium Cohort

Authors: Amy B. Adler, Cynthia A. LeardMann, Kimberly A. Roenfeldt, Isabel G. Jacobson, David Forbes, for the Millennium Cohort Study Team

Published in: BMC Public Health | Issue 1/2020

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Abstract

Background

Problematic anger is intense anger associated with elevated generalized distress and that interferes with functioning. It also confers a heightened risk for the development of mental health problems. In military personnel and veterans, previous studies examining problematic anger have been constrained by sample size, cross-sectional data, and measurement limitations.

Methods

The current study used Millennium Cohort survey data (N = 90,266) from two time points (2013 and 2016 surveys) to assess the association of baseline demographics, military factors, mental health, positive perspective, and self-mastery, with subsequent problematic anger.

Results

Overall, 17.3% of respondents reported problematic anger. In the fully adjusted logistic regression model, greater risk of problematic anger was predicted by certain demographic characteristics as well as childhood trauma and financial problems. Service members who were in the Army or Marines, active duty (vs. reserves/national guard), and previously deployed with high levels of combat had increased risk for problematic anger. Veterans were also more likely to report problematic anger than currently serving personnel. Mental health predictors included posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and comorbid PTSD/MDD. Higher levels of positive perspective and self-mastery were associated with decreased risk of problematic anger.

Conclusion

Not only did 1 in 6 respondents report problematic anger, but risk factors were significant even after adjusting for PTSD and MDD, suggesting that problematic anger is more than an expression of these mental health problems. Results identify potential targets of early intervention and clinical treatment for addressing problematic anger in the military and veteran context.
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Metadata
Title
Magnitude of problematic anger and its predictors in the Millennium Cohort
Authors
Amy B. Adler
Cynthia A. LeardMann
Kimberly A. Roenfeldt
Isabel G. Jacobson
David Forbes
for the Millennium Cohort Study Team
Publication date
01-12-2020
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Public Health / Issue 1/2020
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2458
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-020-09206-2

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