Educational Media Reviews Online

Dealing with anger is common to everyone, but for adolescents, it can be difficult for them to realize how it affects others and how others perceive them in return. This short film starts with identifying what triggers anger and gives examples of teens talking about what makes them mad. Experts chime in with what it means to be angry explaining that it is a normal emotional response.

The program then moves into the possibility of channeling anger. This is where it fails a bit. Only a couple of examples are given, and identifying with them is difficult. The mention of how social movements can transform anger into bringing about positive change, takes more time than necessary. It fails to give practical, everyday ways to channel anger aside from joining a climate movement. Finally, the film comes back to managing anger in a healthy way. A few examples are given and all the while the teens pop in and discuss their point of view, while the experts comment and provide practical thoughts on the matter.

It is a challenge to present a complicated topic in only a few minutes. While adequate information is provided here, given the depth of this topic, grades 6-12 would be appropriate audiences. Typical college aged students will likely find relating to Controlling Anger more difficult. It will be most useful for guidance counselors or in secondary school health classes.