Anger

The Biological Hijack

Anger is an evolutionary survival mechanism designed to mobilize energy to overcome an obstacle. Neurologically, it is an Amygdala Hijack. The amygdala perceives a threat (to safety or ego) and floods the system with catecholamines (adrenaline and noradrenaline).

The “Dumbing Down” Effect

While anger increases physical energy, it dramatically decreases cognitive intelligence.

• Cortical Shutdown: During rage, blood flow is shunted away from the Prefrontal Cortex (logic) to the muscles. This is why you say things in anger that you would never say when calm—your “logic brain” is literally offline.

• The Refractory Period: Once the chemical flood begins, it takes roughly 20 minutes for the body to metabolize the stress hormones. Trying to have a “rational conversation” during this window is biologically futile.

Management Protocols

• Cognitive Reappraisal: The difference between “annoyance” and “rage” is often the story you tell. Changing “He disrespected me” to “He is under pressure” alters the amygdala’s threat assessment.

• The 6-Second Pause: It takes 6 seconds for the chemicals to hijack the brain. If you can pause for that window, you can prevent the full explosion.