Hostility and Agression

Chapter 9: Hostility and aggression

Overview:

• Methods for preventing hostility from developing into aggression or potential violence
• Precautions against violence and aggression for carers
• What not to do when dealing with hostile or aggressive people

Description:

Although most people can control their anger, or express it appropriately, some people have problems in managing their angry feelings. Anger can lead to hostility towards others, and this can deteriorate into aggression and violence. This chapter discusses anger and hostility and how carers can manage it appropriately.

Topics:

• Some terms used in this chapter
• Strategies and techniques
• Aggression directed at the helper
• Things not to do

Speaker / Author:

Hugh Irons
Hugh Irons is a registered nurse who holds a master’s degree in community health nursing and qualifications in workplace assessment and training. Hugh works full-time in community-based mental health care with Ballarat Health Services - Psychiatric Services (Victoria, Australia). He has nearly 20 years of experience in this field, and also has substantial experience in teaching and coordinating undergraduate nursing students at the University of Ballarat, where he is a teaching fellow. Hugh is also a qualified relaxation massage therapist. He is a member of both the Royal College of Nursing Australia and the Australian and New Zealand College of Mental Health Nursing and is an associate member of the Australian Counselling Association. Hugh also runs his own consultancy in workplace and community mental-health behavioural training. In this role, Hugh conducts seminars, runs workplace in-service sessions, and facilitates conferences on a multitude of related topics.

Hugh’s motivation for writing this book springs from his conviction that all caring persons, with or without formal training, can have a significant therapeutic impact on the mental health and well-being of people who find themselves in distressing circumstances. Hugh relaxes with his wife of 35 years, Patricia and is interested in reading, walking and travelling. When travelling, Hugh makes a point of visiting mental-health services in any country that he visits - gathering and disseminating ideas of mutual benefit.

Professional Reviews: